The use of six types of plastics will be banned from today.
Accordingly, one time use polythene and plastics, pet bottles, lunch sheets less than 20 microns, food and other sachets that don’t contain medicine, daily use cotton buds and inflatable plastic toys will be banned from use.
The Ministry of Environment said requests put forth by manufacturers were considered and a three-month period will be granted to sell existing products.
The exportation of the goods will not be affected under any circumstance despite the ban.
Subject Minister Mahinda Amaraweera said the Gazette Notification in this regard has already been issued.
He noted the banned items cannot be imported from overseas either.
Despite attempts to have the ban suspended, Minister Amaraweera said the Cabinet is of the view that the measure must be enforced.
He said while deforestation is being spoken of largely, the harmful impact of polythene in the environment is also concerning.
The Minister added several more items will be banned by May adding that necessary steps will be announced in due course.
(newsradio.lk)