Govt seeks contractor to study alternatives to single-use plastics

The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy has announced plans to recruit a contractor to conduct a study on alternatives to single-use plastics, as part of its ongoing efforts to phase out disposable plastic products nationwide.

According to the ministry’s announcement on Tuesday, interested parties must submit their applications to the ministry’s office at Dharubaaruge before 10:00 on November 12. Bids will be opened at 10:05 in the presence of attendees.

In a parallel initiative, the ministry is also seeking a contractor to develop a teacher handbook aimed at raising awareness among students about the environmental impact of plastics. The handbook will also support the development of sustainable business models and strategies for eliminating single-use plastics.

The Maldives began implementing its single-use plastic phase-out plan under the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. A total of 13 items have been banned so far, with the final item, small plastic water bottles, scheduled for prohibition starting next year.

During Environment Day celebrations in Ukulhas in 2023, President Solih reaffirmed the government’s goal to make the Maldives a zero plastic country by 2030, emphasizing the importance of public awareness and institutional support in achieving this target.