Pak-EPA Confirms No Ban on PET Bottles Amid Confusion in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) clarified on Thursday that there is no ban on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, following reports of federal authorities removing bottled products from store shelves. This statement comes amid confusion regarding the recent announcement by the Minister of State for Interior, Talal Chaudhry, regarding a ban on single-use plastics.

Dr. Zaigham Abbas, an official at Pak-EPA, emphasized that the agency is the sole environmental regulator for Islamabad and that there is no legal basis for the removal of PET bottles from sale. He confirmed that the Islamabad Capital Territory administration has been informed of this clarification, aiming to dispel any misunderstandings.

The confusion arose after Minister Chaudhry’s announcement last Sunday, which included a ban on single-use plastic bags by December 31, and mentioned that this ban would extend to plastic bottles, including water bottles. Dr. Abbas further noted that plastic bags used for packaging food items with a longer shelf life do not fall under the definition of single-use plastic bags, as they serve to protect food from spoilage.

As the situation develops, it remains crucial for consumers and retailers to stay informed about the regulations surrounding plastic use in Islamabad. The Pak-EPA’s clarification aims to ensure that businesses can operate without the fear of sudden regulatory changes. Further discussions and potential policy reviews are expected in the coming weeks to address environmental concerns while balancing consumer needs.