One-time use phone chargers banned in Dubai

The chargers have been banned in an effort to reduce electronic waste. Courtesy Dubai Municipality

DUBAI// Disposable one-time use phone chargers have been banned by Dubai Municipality because of the environmental risks they pose.

The ruling by Hussain Nasser Lootah, director general of the municipality, prevents the import, sale and circulation of disposable chargers in Dubai.

The move is designed to not only protect the environment but prevent financial loss given the short lifespan of the devices.

Redha Salman, director of the municipality’s health and safety department, said the decision was made because of the “non-feasibility” of the chargers and the dangerous impact they have on the environment.

“They are also increasing the quantity of electronic waste in the general waste, which constitutes an environmental burden,” said Mr Salman.

“Besides the environmental damage, these chargers also cause financial loss to the public due to their short life.

“The municipality calls upon all establishments in the emirate not to import or sell any disposable and non-rechargeable one-time use mobile phone chargers.”

Retailers are advised to return the products to their country of origin or re-export them within one month from issue of the municipality circular warning of the risks, said Mr Salman.