In a bid to curb plastic pollution and protect public health, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Chakwal has intensified its efforts to enforce the ban on single-use plastic bags. The agency is specifically targeting bags with a thickness of less than 75 microns and a size of 12×16 inches.
Over the past month, EPA teams have conducted 240 inspections, issuing 116 notices and seizing over 200 kilograms of banned plastic bags. The agency is working closely with district authorities to clamp down on the illegal use of these plastic bags.
New Regulations
As per the amended Single-Use Plastic Regulations 2023, all stakeholders in the plastic industry must register and obtain licenses from the EPA. This includes producers, distributors, bulk consumers, recyclers, and collectors.
To support this initiative, an awareness session was held at EPA Chakwal for local plastic dealers. So far, 10 major dealers have completed their registration.
Strict Actions Against Violators
The EPA Chakwal warns that strict actions will be taken against violators, including confiscation, fines, and sealing of premises. The agency remains committed to eliminating harmful plastic waste throughout the district.