Consumers cut plastic bag use by 95 per cent under Abu Dhabi environment initiative

More than 360 million single-use plastic bags have been saved since 2022

Abu Dhabi has cut more than 360 million single-use plastic bags since a ban came into effect in 2022

Abu Dhabi has cut more than 360 million single-use plastic bags since a ban came into effect in 2022. That is the equivalent of 2,400 tonnes of plastic.

This represents a 95 per cent reduction in the number of plastic bags used at cash counters in the emirate, according to Dr Shaikha Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of Environment Agency Abu Dhabi.

By the end of this year, the number of single-use plastic bags saved is set to hit 400 million.

Changes in behaviour

The eco-friendly strategy was introduced as part of wider efforts to promote sustainable practices across the UAE.

“We knew that a consumer change in behaviour was the key to us being able to reduce the reliance on single-use plastics and nurture a culture of reuse and recycling,” said Dr Al Dhaheri. “The Abu Dhabi community has proven to be more than collaborative and proactive.”

Sustainable habits

Beyond bags, an incentive-based bottle return scheme rolled out in Abu Dhabi last year, has resulted in more than 130 million bottles being collected from reverse vending machines across the city – enough to fill 80 lorries.

Earlier this year, the agency imposed a ban on some Styrofoam products – the agency reported that this has resulted in a 97 per cent compliance rate among retailers. The ban on styrofoam in Abu Dhabi is a prelude to the Federal ban on targeted Styrofoam and plastic products which will become effective in 2026.

The shift in behaviour is affecting industry change. Dr Al Dhaheri highlighted that the number of companies manufacturing single-use plastic products in Abu Dhabi has decreased from 110 in 2022 to 88 last year, while the number of recycling companies has grown.

“We witnessed the establishment of 57 new recycling companies working in the emirate’s waste sector, which contributes to enhancing the quality of life and its sustainability, and enhances the circular economy system,” she said.

Abu Dhabi single-use plastic ban – in pictures

Shoppers pack goods into long-life bags at the checkout. Abu Dhabi's authorities opted for a total ban instead of a charge per bag.

Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, centre, white mask, secretary general of Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, visits Lulu Supermarket in Mushrif Mall on the first day of a ban on plastic shopping bags. All photos: Chris Whiteoak / The National

Long-life shopping bags made of jute and cotton on display at Lulu in Mushrif Mall, Abu Dhabi.

Signs at Spinneys on Abu Dhabi's Muroor Road inform the public that from June 1, 2022, shops cannot stock single-use plastic bags.

Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own but can also buy long-life bags in shops.

Exceptions to the ban include plastic packaging used to wrap meats and thin poly bags for vegetables and grains.

Supermarket staff pose for a photo with trolleys full of long-life bags.