The Iraqi government has approved new environmental measures aimed at reducing plastic waste across the country. The latest decisions include a ban on plastic bags in bakeries and restrictions on free plastic shopping bags. Officials say the move forms part of a broader national campaign to confront the growing Iraq plastic pollution crisis.
Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi chaired the cabinet session that approved the new regulations. According to an official statement, the government adopted recommendations submitted by the national committee for reducing plastic pollution.
Under the new measures, authorities will ban the free distribution of plastic shopping bags within six months. The government will also prohibit bakeries from using plastic bags and prevent the import of certain plastic products. Officials plan to replace traditional plastic materials with environmentally friendly biodegradable alternatives.
The cabinet also approved new financial measures targeting plastic manufacturers. Authorities will impose business and professional fees on factories producing nylon bags. Officials said the revenues will help fund environmental projects and public awareness campaigns.
The latest policies reflect increasing concern over Iraq plastic pollution and its impact on public health and the environment. Environmental experts have repeatedly warned about the dangers of single-use plastics, especially in urban areas where waste management systems remain under pressure.
The government additionally introduced environmental service fees linked to plastic production. These charges include monitoring and environmental assessment costs for factories. Part of the collected revenue will support recycling programs and environmental monitoring activities across Iraq.
Officials also announced the formation of a specialized committee to encourage recycling and waste sorting projects. The committee will develop mechanisms supporting investment in paper industries and alternative packaging solutions. Authorities hope these projects will reduce reliance on plastic products in commercial sectors.
The Ministry of Environment will launch educational campaigns warning about the dangers of excessive plastic use. These campaigns aim to increase public awareness and encourage consumers to adopt environmentally safer habits.
The growing Iraq plastic pollution problem has pushed authorities to consider stricter environmental policies in recent years. Large amounts of plastic waste continue affecting rivers, streets, farmland, and urban areas across Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
Local governments have already tested similar measures before. In 2019, authorities in Sulaymaniyah banned plastic bags in bakeries and encouraged businesses to switch to paper alternatives. However, the policy faced enforcement challenges because paper bags cost more than imported plastic products.
Environmental activists welcomed the latest federal decision but stressed that proper enforcement will remain essential. Experts say long-term success depends on stronger regulation, public cooperation, and expanded recycling infrastructure throughout the country.