Montenegro Imposes €0.05 Fee on Plastic Bags Over 50 Microns

The government of Montenegro has introduced a new regulation mandating a fee of €0.05 for lightweight plastic bags with a thickness exceeding 50 microns. This decision, announced by the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development, and Northern Development, aims to strengthen the country’s waste management system.

According to a statement from the ministry led by Damjan Ćulafić, the regulation is intended to enhance the management of plastic waste. The fee will be calculated based on a monthly report submitted by sellers, detailing the quantity of plastic bags distributed. This report must be sent to the Environmental Protection Agency by the 5th of each month.

New Payment Structure for Plastic Bags

The regulation specifies that the fee will be assessed based on the monthly sales of plastic bags. The payments are to be transferred to a designated account of the Environmental Protection Fund within 15 days after the issuance of a decision by the relevant authority. This structure aims to ensure accountability and proper allocation of funds.

Ćulafić emphasized that the introduction of this fee follows the implementation of a ban on the use of plastic bags with a thickness of 15 to 50 microns, which took effect on October 20, 2022. He noted that early results showed a significant decrease in plastic bag usage, with a reported reduction of 72 percent in landfills and a halving of sales in retail chains.

Public Awareness Campaigns and Future Initiatives

The Ministry has been actively conducting campaigns to raise awareness about the harmful effects of single-use plastics. As part of these efforts, they distributed 10,000 biodegradable bags to encourage consumers to shift towards more sustainable alternatives. This initiative is intended to further promote environmentally friendly habits among the population.

Previously, sellers of plastic bags over 50 microns were required to pay a fee of €0.03. The funds collected by the Environmental Protection Agency from this fee will be directed towards new campaigns and educational activities focused on reducing plastic waste.

Ćulafić reiterated the government’s commitment to a clear and consistent policy aimed at minimizing the use of plastic bags to protect the environment. He highlighted that the progression from the Waste Management Law to the recent regulation represents a step-by-step approach in addressing the longstanding issue of plastic waste.

He also expressed optimism regarding increasing public consciousness about environmental issues. Evidence of this shift is visible, as more individuals are opting for reusable bags instead of plastic ones, particularly among the youth. This demographic not only serves as a catalyst for change but also plays a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable future for Montenegro.

In conclusion, the new regulation and ongoing initiatives reflect the Montenegrin government’s dedication to combating plastic pollution and fostering a culture of sustainability.