25. 12. 2024.
In accordance with the need to protect the environment and reduce the use of plastic materials, Montenegro has enacted a new Law on Waste Management. This law introduces significant changes in the way plastic bags and single-use products are used.
In this blog, we will explain the key provisions of the law and how they affect consumers, retailers, and the environment.
BAN ON THE USE OF BAGS WITH A THICKNESS OF 15 TO 50 MICRONS
From October 20, 2024, the use of plastic bags with a thickness of 15 to 50 microns will be banned. This measure aims to reduce the amount of waste generated by the use of plastic bags, which often end up in nature and pose a significant problem for the ecosystem. All bags of this type must be removed from sale.
BAGS UNDER 15 MICRON THICKNESS
Bags thinner than 15 microns will still be allowed, but only for packaging fruits, vegetables, meat, cheese, and similar products that do not have their own packaging.
BAGS OVER 50 MICRON THICK
For bags thicker than 50 microns, retailers will be required to pay a fee of 0.03 cents per bag. The fee will be calculated based on a monthly report of the quantity of bags that the retailer has put into circulation.
These reports will be submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency, which will determine the fee amount based on these reports. The fees will be paid to the Environmental Protection Fund.
Specification: Retailers must have a specification document from their bag suppliers, which must be kept in their records.
Borrowing Bags: Bags thicker than 50 microns are borrowed in retail, and a calculation must be made.
Bags with labels and prices must be displayed in a specific area of the store.
BRANDED BAGS
Retailers are not allowed to charge for branded bags.
USE OF PLASTIC SINGLE-USE PRODUCTS
In addition to the ban on bags, the use of plastic single-use products is also prohibited, such as cotton swabs, cutlery (forks, knives, spoons, chopsticks), plates, and straws.
PAPER BAGS
The use of paper bags is permitted, and the aforementioned rules do not apply to them.
