To implement the law that bans trading in plastic bags, the authorities should immediately adopt the regulations concerning packing and packing waste, Vladimir Garaba, head of the Chisinau local organization of the Ecologist Movement, stated for IPN. He said the regulations were proposed for public debates two years ago, but haven’t yet been submitted to the Government for approval, for unknown reasons.

According to the ecologist, the regulations should stipulate all the restrictions required for the plastic bags to stop being produced and imported so that they are gradually withdrawn. “This process can be controlled. All the plastic bags that we buy at the market, for example, are sold in large specialized stores. These bring plastic material to Moldova and make plastic bags here and offer them for sale. If restrictions are imposed on production and import, these bags will be gradually removed,” stated Vladimir Garaba.

He also said that the law will be efficient only if the authorities ensure stricter control after January 1, 2019, when this will take effect. “When the law was adopted, the regulations on waste management should also have been approved. Regrettably, we do not yet have the document on the management of waste, including plastic waste. This document should specify all the details and limits on the import and sale of bags made from biodegradable material,” explained Vladimir Garaba.

Under the law passed by Parliament in the final reading on July 7, large stores will be unable to sell and use disposable plastic bags as of 2019, the medium and small stores – after January 1, 2018, while the temporary stationery or mobile units – as of 2020. The law stipulates that the sale of disposable plastic bags will be punished with a fine of 5,000 to 7,500 lei in the case of private individuals and of 5,000 to 10,000 lei in the case of legal entities.