[GreenYes] Zanzibar has banned the import and production of plastic bags to protect its env

[RicAnthony@no.address]

ZANZIBAR - Zanzibar has banned the import and production of plastic bags  to
protect its environment and tourism industry.


Just off the  coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar is on a major 
route  for
plastic bags heading for the east African mainland. It estimates more  than 
200
tonnes of bags pass through its port every month.
"We have to put  the environment above everything," Zanzibar's Director of
Environment Ali  Juma said.
"Besides being an eyesore, plastic bags are very damaging to land  and marine 
life
and we are already threatened by the rapid pace of  development."
Tourism is the backbone of the island's economy. Zanzibar has  major problems
managing sewage and rubbish. Less than 10 percent of sewage is  treated and 
it can
get rid of only about a third of the 200 tonnes of rubbish  produced daily.
"While it is environmentally sound to ban the plastic bags,  the government 
is going
to lose US$400,000 per month as revenue for bags on  transit and destined for 
the
local market," said businessman Salim  Turky.


Ricanthony@no.address
RichardAnthonyAssociates.com
San Diego,  California




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