The ban on non-biodegradable plastics continues into its second year. The Dominica Bureau of Standards (DOBS) placed a ban on the use of non-biodegradable single-use plastics in January 2019, and the ban remains in effect even into its second year. The ban includes plastic cups, straws, lids, styrofoam bowl containers, and disposable plastic spoons and cutlery among others.
DOBS’s director, Median LeRocque, said the country has witnessed positive development since the disposable plastic ban went into effect. He said plastic manufacturers have been forced to improve the quality of their products following the ban, and that the environment is much safer with the move.
Acccording to LeRocque, DOBS has received several feedbacks from members of the public following the ban, and that these will be reviewed with some of them passed on to manufacturers. He said one of the gaps that plastic manufacturers need to fill is over the complaint of leaky plastic containers.
The bureau director also said new plastic manufacturer and distributors might be accredited soon and introduced to the Dominican market.
“It’s an industry in Dominica right now,” LaRocque said. “Private entrepreneurs or young innovative minds can start using our resources like bamboo and banana leaves. We can now go into those industries.”
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