Balochistan Use of Plastic Shopping and Flat Bags, Act 2023 (Act No.VII of 2023).

The Act provides for regulating the manufacturing, sale, purchase, store, display, use and import of the plastic shopping and flat bags. The Act defines responsibility of the Advisory Committee that is tasked with convening meetings, exploring alternative approaches to plastic management, suggesting research initiatives on plastic-related concerns, and potentially proposing legislation for alternatives to plastic bags within a two-year timeframe. The Act further outlines the phased approach to banning uncertified plastic shopping and flat bags: initially prohibiting their manufacturing and import, followed by a ban on sale and purchase, and finally, a complete prohibition on their use, display, and storage. Any existing licenses or permits for manufacturing, sale, or import of these banned plastic bags will become ineffective. The Act specifies stringent criteria for certifying plastic bags, including minimum thickness, required labeling, and certification from authorized laboratories regarding material safety and composition. The text further refers to monitoring, penalty, recycling, awareness and education, research and certification. The Act consists of 27 Articles.