States urged to impose pollution charge on plastic bags

KUALA LUMPUR: All states have been urged to begin imposing a pollution charge on plastic bags used in premises such as hypermarkets and restaurants within three years from 2019.
Energy, Science, Technology, Environment and Climate Change Minister Yeo Bee Yin said this is part of Phase One (2019-2021) of the ministry's "Roadmap Towards Zero Single-Use Plastics 2018-2030" that was launched here today.
"State governments may decide how and when it will be implemented," she said.
Yeo said the funds collected could be used, among others, to mount awareness campaigns or for giveaway reusable shopping bags for the public.
She also pointed out that the "no-straw by default" scheme at food outlets would also help to reduce single-usage plastic waste. — Bernama