Muscat – Enforcement of Phase 3 of the single-use plastic shopping bags ban scheduled from July 1 has been inconsistent. Some commercial establishments included in the phase continue to hand out plastic bags. How can the ban be more effectively implemented? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said – 

Salim al Balushi, Private sector employee
The ban is a great move, but enforcement is weak. Authorities need to inspect shops regularly and fine violators. More awareness campaigns can also help people shift to reusable bags.

Mona al Riyami, Homemaker
I still receive plastic bags at small stores. There should be one rule for all, big or small. Give shops a deadline and supply affordable eco-friendly alternatives.

Rashid al Harthi, Student
We need stronger public engagement. Involve schools and colleges to spread awareness. Also, reward stores that follow the ban – positive reinforcement works better than just penalties.

Arun Menon, Supermarket manager
Many stores continue using plastic due to lack of alternatives and cost issues. The government could subsidise paper or cloth bags for a while to help the transition.

Paramesh Dhanapal, Student
Plastic causes pollution and it cannot be decomposed. It pollutes all the five essential elements of our universe. Stopping or significantly reducing the use of plastic is essential for our environment. The ban should be effectively implemented to save our planet. The first step towards this would be discontinuation of production of plastics. Next, is punishment for those who are not ready to take this seriously. Severe punishment like large amounts of money in fine or imprisonment has to be implemented to make the ban more effective.

Muna Basheer al Zadjali, Private sector employee
Banning plastic bags is a necessary step towards a cleaner environment, but it is only the beginning. To ensure the ban is effective, there must be affordable and practical alternatives and public awareness. With these measures in place, the fight against plastic pollution can become much more successful.

Jovita Sarkar, Retail sales manager  
I think it would be a good idea if we are given more access to resources to make cloth, paper or jute bags. After all, it’s difficult to maintain these in the same way as single-use plastic bags for customers and workers alike. 
 
Dalal al Amri, Human resources manager  
The biggest issue I and many other customers face with the implementation of this ban is the lack of accessible alternatives. If I don’t have a high-quality cloth bag, then I’m forced to use the ones provided by shops which are very expensive to buy and only last for a couple of purchases before they get ruined. 
 
Siddharth Pandey, Software engineer
This ban can be more effectively implemented if authorities inspect local businesses more frequently. If they regularly monitor plastic consumption rates of commercial centres, they can make more informed decisions when they introduce new phases of the ban. Providing monetary incentives for reduced plastic consumption may encourage such businesses to take more responsibility for our environment.