Single-use plastic banned: Uzbekistan is preparing to tighten the screws

Uzbekistan may legislate restrictions on the use of disposable plastic products. The corresponding bill was adopted in the first reading on December 17 at a meeting of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis. The document introduces the concept of ecologically clean territories and establishes new rules for handling plastic in order to protect ecosystems and natural landscapes.

The project assumes that in zones with a "clean territory" regime, activities that could disrupt the stability of ecosystems or change the natural environment will be prohibited. It is also proposed to reduce the use of disposable plastic, with the exception of products made from natural organic polymers. A separate emphasis is placed on reducing the harm from plastic bags, which remain one of the main sources of environmental pollution.

The initiative is being developed as part of the "Uzbekistan - 2030" strategy and the Year of Environmental Protection and the "Green Economy". The bill takes into account international practices to reduce plastic waste, including the creation of collection and recycling points, the introduction of returnable containers and financial incentives for citizens for handing over plastic. According to environmental agencies, the country generates more than 10 million tons of household waste annually, more than 1 million tons of which is plastic, and the authorities expect that the new measures will help reduce this burden on nature.