Latest news with #ClimateChangeandEnvironment
The Star
09-06-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Selangor laying the groundwork to phase out single-use plastic straws
Wong said authorities should roll out the initiative with incentives. SELANGOR is reviewing local laws to identify which authority should enforce the phasing out of single-use plastic straws. 'The process of identifying the authority in charge has begun,' said Jamaliah Jamaluddin. The state public health and environment committee chairman said when it came to the law, a series of discussions was needed. 'This is to ensure there's no conflict or loophole when it is approved at the Selangor State Executive Council (MMKN) level. We are currently undergoing that process,' she said. Puchong MP Yeo Bee Yin, said the straw ban was an awareness campaign promoted during her tenure as Minister of Energy, Technology, Science, Climate Change and Environment in 2018. The 'Say No to Single-use Plastic Straw' posters are still on the walls of some restaurants. 'We wanted the public to be aware that plastic straws are harmful. Many places, such as cafes, are still giving away biodegradable straws. 'However, places such as mamak stalls may be facing cost-related issues. 'Bigger food and beverage companies are already using biodegradable straws. However, plastic straws are still available due to cost and customer preferences,' she said. She added that under the Malaysia Plastic Sustainability Roadmap 2021–2030, the single- use plastic straw was among top 10 items listed to be phased out. 'We have to see this in totality and consider the progress we are making. I will certainly bring this matter up in Parliament,' said Yeo. The implementation of any new directive related to single- use plastics, including straws should be legally enforced to be effective, said Wong Si Peng. The Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4 Centre) events and projects officer said institutionalised changes were needed for a positive outcome. She called for a bottom-up approach and the empowerment of local authorities to roll out the initiative with incentives. 'Ideas to ban or stop the use of certain items should not be implemented haphazardly; instead, they must be thoroughly thought out,' she said. Wong added that the issue of overflowing of landfills should be of great concern to all parties. She said one promising local council was Kota Kinabalu City Hall, which enforced a policy where no plastic bags were provided in shops, and no fee was collected. 'If you want a bag, you have to buy a recyclable one. This encourages people to bring their own bags when shopping,' she said. Wong hopes data is collected on these initiatives to reduce waste through the ban of single- use plastics, and that it is made publicly accessible. 'Such data is valuable to inform policy drafting,' she said. — By SHEILA SRI PRIYA
Time Out Dubai
09-06-2025
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
UAE to introduce single-use plastic ban in 2026: Your need to know
The United Arab Emirates is set to introduce a single-use plastic ban at the start of 2026. A comprehensive ban on the import, production and trade of single-use plastic products will be introduced on Thursday January 1 across the emirates. This ban is in addition to the existing plan to ban plastic plates, plastic food containers, plastic tableware and drinks cups with plastic lids in Dubai on the first day of 2026. Previously, Dubai banned single-use plastic bags in 2024 and plastic stirrers, tablecloths, cups and food containers made of styrofoam in 2025. It's all part of a phased approach in the UAE to reducing plastic waste and protecting the environment. The national ban on single-use plastic was announced on World Environment Day, Thursday June 5, by Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, the Minister of Climate Change and Environment. The plastic ban applies to importing single-use plastic products from abroad, production of any single-use plastic products in the UAE and the sale of any single-use plastic product in Dubai and the other emirates. Plastic waste is considered one of the most dangerous pollutants on Earth due to its resistance to degradation and recycling. On World Environment Day, we shed light on the growing challenges of plastic pollution and the urgent need for a comprehensive shift in consumption and… — وزارة التغير المناخي والبيئة (@MoCCaEUAE) June 5, 2025 The UAE's Circular Economy Policy, introduced in January 2021, is geared towards renewable production, responsible food consumption and green transportation. Dr Al Dahak said that the national policy is a key driver in reducing plastic waste in the UAE. She said: 'The policy prioritises reducing plastic waste and promoting innovative solutions for sustainable packaging and recycling. 'Furthermore, we are resolutely committed to managing hazardous waste and aggressively reducing plastic waste at every level. 'Each of us, as responsible members of our community, can play a leading role in realising our nation's vision by joining the mission to eliminate unnecessary plastic from our daily lives. 'Let us become active agents of change, leading a powerful movement towards thriving communities, and a vibrant, resilient environment. 'Let us protect the land and the sea that are so integral to our lives, for ourselves, our loved ones, and for generations to come.' More Dubai news FIX chocolate is launching a new flavour this week — here's how to try it You could be one of the first to get your hands on the new bar 40 Dubai locations to see traffic improvements this summer Everything you need to know 6 surprising ways the new dirham symbol will affect you Including where it'll appear on your keyboard
Dubai Eye
09-06-2025
- General
- Dubai Eye
UAE marks Oceans Day with renewed environmental goals
On World Oceans Day, the UAE reaffirmed its strong commitment to protecting and preserving marine ecosystems, both locally and globally. Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, said the UAE is deeply aware of the urgent challenges facing our oceans, from climate change and coral bleaching to pollution and unsustainable fishing. Speaking under this year's theme, 'Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us,' Dr. Al Dahak highlighted the UAE's ambitious efforts, including plans to plant 100 million mangroves and outplant over 4 million coral colonies by 2030. She also stressed the importance of individual action, urging people to reduce plastic use, support ocean conservation, and teach younger generations about the value of our seas. The UAE has also taken its mission global, becoming the first country in the region to join the UN's '100% Alliance' for sustainable ocean management. "Every action, no matter how small, makes a difference. Let's work together to restore the vibrancy of our oceans. Let's ensure that the 'Wonder' of the ocean endures," Dr. Al Dahak said. On #WorldOceansDay, H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, affirmed that this year's theme 'Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us' deeply reflects the UAE's vision for a sustainable future. Her Excellency highlighted the UAE's local and… — وزارة التغير المناخي والبيئة (@MoCCaEUAE) June 8, 2025
TAG 91.1
08-06-2025
- General
- TAG 91.1
UAE marks Oceans Day with renewed environmental goals
On World Oceans Day, the UAE reaffirmed its strong commitment to protecting and preserving marine ecosystems, both locally and globally. Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, said the UAE is deeply aware of the urgent challenges facing our oceans, from climate change and coral bleaching to pollution and unsustainable fishing. Speaking under this year's theme, 'Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us,' Dr. Al Dahak highlighted the UAE's ambitious efforts, including plans to plant 100 million mangroves and outplant over 4 million coral colonies by 2030. She also stressed the importance of individual action, urging people to reduce plastic use, support ocean conservation, and teach younger generations about the value of our seas. The UAE has also taken its mission global, becoming the first country in the region to join the UN's '100% Alliance' for sustainable ocean management. "Every action, no matter how small, makes a difference. Let's work together to restore the vibrancy of our oceans. Let's ensure that the 'Wonder' of the ocean endures," Dr. Al Dahak said. On #WorldOceansDay, H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, affirmed that this year's theme 'Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us' deeply reflects the UAE's vision for a sustainable future. Her Excellency highlighted the UAE's local and… — وزارة التغير المناخي والبيئة (@MoCCaEUAE) June 8, 2025
Gulf Today
06-06-2025
- Health
- Gulf Today
UAE to enhance sustainable national food security
Dr. Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, affirmed that the UAE places food safety at the forefront of its strategic priorities for enhancing sustainable national food security, and considers it indispensable to the stability of food supply chains. In a statement on the occasion of World Food Safety Day 2025, Dr. Al Dahak noted that the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment has been consistently working to develop a comprehensive framework of laws and regulations based on scientific principles, in line with global best practices in this field. Dr. Al Dahak stated, 'This year's World Food Safety Day is held under the theme 'Food Safety - Science in Action,' which highlights the use of scientific knowledge as key to ensuring food safety, protecting society and driving well-being in a world experiencing rapid changes and increasing food challenges.' She continued, 'Food safety is a shared national endeavour and an imperative for our future. The UAE has forged a robust foundation, building a flexible and modern legislative system, powered by advanced digital infrastructure, and strengthened by seamless integration across regulatory bodies, government, and the private sector. We continue to enhance our regulatory capabilities and update tracking and early warning mechanisms, ensuring food quality and safety from source to consumer, and further strengthening public trust in the national food system.' The minister pointed out that the growing challenges related to food call for cooperation and coordination among all stakeholders at both local and global levels to share best practices and regulatory standards to ensure the highest levels of food safety. She further stated that the UAE's vision extends beyond its borders committing to international collaboration in food safety. The nation stands ready to partner on initiatives that integrate food safety systems worldwide, sharing expertise as a testament to its international responsibility. Dr. Al Dahak concluded, 'The UAE is committed to continuing investment in knowledge, legislation, and innovation, propelling food safety to new heights and driving the nation's vision for a healthy, safe, and food-secure future.' Earlier Dr. Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said that the UAE is continuing its pioneering efforts to reduce plastic pollution at the national and global levels. In a statement marking World Environment Day, which falls annually on June 5th, Dr. Al Dahak reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to protecting its precious environment, inspired by the vision of the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who recognised the link between a healthy environment and a thriving society. 'The UAE remains steadfast in its dedication to safeguarding our natural heritage. We envision a future with thriving ecosystems and protected life both on land and in the sea - a legacy we build together as a community,' she added. This year, World Environment Day calls for collective action to tackle plastic pollution, a challenge that demands our immediate attention and unified efforts. In response to this pressing issue, the UAE is implementing a comprehensive system to ensure proper and effective management of plastic products. Starting 1st January 2026, Dr. Al Dahak clarified, the UAE will implement a comprehensive ban on the import, production, and trade of single-use plastic products. This builds upon the phased approach initiated in 2024 with the ban on plastic bags. This decisive action underscores our resolve and commitment to environmental stewardship, driving us towards a future where waste and pollution are designed out of our systems. She emphasised that as part of the UAE's global efforts to reduce plastic waste, the Clean Rivers, one of Erth Zayed Philanthropies' initiatives, tackles plastic pollution in river systems by empowering communities and driving innovative solutions to create plastic-free waterways. The Minister of Climate Change and Environment explained that the UAE's Circular Economy Policy is a key driver of this transformation, optimising resource use in critical sectors such as green infrastructure, transportation, manufacturing, and responsible food production and consumption. 'The policy prioritises reducing plastic waste and promoting innovative solutions for sustainable packaging and recycling. Furthermore, we are resolutely committed to managing hazardous waste and aggressively reducing plastic waste at every level,' she further said. WAM
