In the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), the consumption of plastic bags is prohibited by the decision of the Council of Ministers. As of June 1, 2023, plastic bags will not be sold for a fee or free, promotions or campaigns in any way. Very light, small-sized, handleless nylon bags are not covered by the ban.
The TRNC banned the use of plastic bags in order to reduce the amount of waste and protect the environment. The decision to be implemented six months later was published in the Official Gazette. With the decision taken within the scope of the environmental law, it is aimed to give the plastic bags, which started to be sold for 25 cents in the markets in 2018, to the customer free of charge, to prevent them from being sold, to be given through promotions or campaigns, and to minimize consumption.
Compliance with the decision, which will begin in June, will be monitored by the Environmental Protection Department of the Ministry of Tourism and Environment. Those found not to comply with the ban will be reported to the ALO 123 Environmental Complaint Line.
THERE ARE SOME CRITICIANS AS SUPPORTING
The decision taken on the sale of plastic bags was supported by some of the citizens, while others were criticized. While the supporters of the decision cited the protection of the environment as the reason, the critics argued that plastic bags are very practical in shopping.