The Dominica government says it will ban the use of Styrofoam and certain plastic items from January 1, next year.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit told Parliament that that the decision is in keeping with his administration’s vision to have the island become the first climate resilient country in the world.
“Madam Speaker, consistent with the Government’s vision to create the world’s first climate resilient nation, our designation as “The Nature Isle” and our commitment to protect Mother Earth, effective 1st January 2019, a number of items considered to be inimical to the environment will be banned.
“These will include the following: plastic straws, plastic plates, plastic forks, plastic knives, Styrofoam cups, Styrofoam containers,” Skerrit said, adding that that the necessary legislation to enforce the ban will soon be prepared. “We must in every way deserve and reflect that designation,” he said of the island being known as the “Nature Isle.”
He said the issue of solid waste management affects the perception of Dominica as the Nature Island and his government continues to grapple with the problem.
“In a previous budget address, I announced a decision to restrict the importation of non-biodegradable containers and plastic implements used in food service. This matter has not proceeded as quickly as we would have liked, as we wanted to ensure that we implemented that policy without compromising our obligations under the revised Treaty of Chaguaramas. (that governs the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)).
“It is acceptable for a country to adopt measures which will help in the preservation of the environment,” he added.
