The ban imposed on single-use and short-term plastic will come into effect from 31 March, 2021.

The Central Environment Authority of Sri Lanka said the ban has been imposed by special gazette No. 2211/51 issued on 21 January, 2021 in relation to plastic regulation.

Accordingly, the ban on polyethylene terphthalate (PET) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) materials for packaging agricultural materials used for a certain process, trade or industry will come into effect in March.

The Authority said the use of the below specific plastic items is banned for a certain process, trade or industry.

1. net volume 20 ml / net weight 20 grams equal or less sachet (except for use in food and medicines packaging)

2. Windy Toys – (except balloons, balls, floats on water / swimming pools and water sports equipment)

3. Cotton Buds with Plastic Stem (Except plastic cotton buds used for medical / clinical treatment) are prohibited. (NewsWire)