Clik here to view.
Decree to outlaw bags blamed for causing floods and landslides by blocking drains
Congo-Brazzaville is to ban the production, import, sale and use of plastic bags in a move to fight environmental pollution in the central African nation, the government has said.
Spokesman Bienvenu Okiemy Okiemy said the government adopted a decree following a cabinet meeting on Wednesday. It prohibits the use of plastic bags to pack food, groceries, water and other beverages.
"For some years now, particularly in urban areas, Congo has witnessed major environmental pollution caused by discarded plastic bags which block drainage systems, causing floods and landslides," Okiemy said.
He did not say when the ban would start.
Congo, like many developing nations, lacks adequate waste management and recycling facilities. The widely used non-biodegradable plastic bags are strewn about, causing harm to the environment.
Rwanda led Africa's fight against plastic bags, banning them five years ago. Other countries have also moved to either ban or limit their use.
In December Italy said it would ban plastic shopping bags while the European commission said in May it was considering a tax or a ban on plastic bags to cut their use.
