Ten Measures Introduced to Reduce Plastic Pollution in Egypt

The Ministry of Local Development and Ministry of Environment have released a set of measures aimed at protecting Egypt’s land, coastline and marine ecosystems from plastic pollution. The measures include:

Strengthening legal penalties: Using Article 27 of Waste Management Law No. 202 of 2020, strict penalties will be enforced to reduce the use and distribution of single-use plastic bags.

Setting manufacturing standards: Standard Specification 3040 will be applied, requiring producers to manufacture plastic bags that are at least 50 microns thick to ensure they can be reused rather than quickly discarded.

Holding producers accountable: Companies will be required to collect and recycle their packaging waste through the activation of Prime Ministerial Decree No. 662 of 2025.

Introducing eco-friendly alternatives in tourist areas: In key Red Sea destinations, including Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada, sustainable alternatives to plastic will be distributed in coordination with local environmental authorities.

Raising awareness to protect marine ecosystems: Awareness campaigns will target the Red Sea Governorate to educate the public on the impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems and coral reefs.

Educating younger generations: Cartoons and school-based campaigns will be developed to encourage children and students to adopt more sustainable consumption habits.

Using smart recycling technology: The distribution of Reverse Vending Machines will be expanded in the New Administrative Capital and large residential areas to promote the return and recycling of plastic.

International cooperation: Partnerships with organisations such as UNIDO, GIZ, JICA and the World Bank will support waste management projects and technological development.

Creating a specialised plastics unit: A dedicated unit will be established under the Waste Management Regulatory Authority, in collaboration with the Japanese Government, to oversee and manage plastic waste.

Developing a sustainable marine waste strategy: A national action plan will be drafted to protect Red Sea coastlines in partnership with PERSGA, focusing on long-term marine waste management.