Have you heard about the plastic bag ban in Tanzania?
The silent revolution that you may not have read about, but is taking Africa by storm. Here’s everything you need to know about the plastic ban in Tanzania, including some useful tips to help you pack responsibly for your trip.
OK. So what’s happened?
On 1st June 2019, Tanzania joined hands with 33 other African countries in banning plastic carrier bags. The law now prevents the import, export, manufacturing, sale, storage, supply, and use of all plastic carry bags.
The Tanzanian government has even published a notice prohibiting people from selling commodities wrapped in plastics, unless the nature of such commodities requires plastic wrapping.
Their government’s official notice to travellers visiting Tanzania can be viewed here.
Why have they done it?
It has been estimated that approximately 350,000 tonnes of plastic waste is generated annually in Mainland Tanzania, with 70 per cent of this constituting carrier bags.
While Tanzania hit the headlines earlier this year, the trend has actually been gaining momentum on the African continent for quite some time now. Africa is now leading the world in bag regulation, with over 30 of those countries representing sub-Saharan Africa.
Is it working?
Yes. The effect has been immediate, with all stalls and shops now adopting a paper-based alternative. This is obviously great news for environmentalists, and Choose a Challenge is in full support of the initiative.
How will this affect my trip?
Participants should be aware of the ban and make the necessary adjustments when packing for their trip.
Can’t I just dispose of my carrier bags when I land in Kenya?
Nope! Sorry. Kenya has already pledged to phase out non-biodegradable plastics, imposing its own nationwide ban in 2017.
What if I get caught with a plastic bag?
There are potential fines you could face if caught using or improperly disposing of plastic bags in Tanzania. The Tanzanian government has warned tourists to "surrender" any plastic bags before entering the country. Anyone found carrying a bag can be subject to an on-the-spot fine of $13.
For the time being, at least, special desks have been designated at all entry points to Tanzania, providing travellers the opportunity to dispose of any plastic bags they have in their possession.
What about Ziplock bags?
Currently, Ziplock bags (i.e. those specifically used to carry toiletries) will be permitted, as it would be expected they remain in the permanent possession of visitors and thereby not disposed of in-country. This is a major relief for anyone with prior travel experience who has become accustomed to the convenience of using these to store personal toiletries. However, this should be the extent of your plastic carrier allowance while traveling, and you must retain possession of these throughout the duration of your trip.
Is it the same in Zanzibar?
The new legislation applies specifically to Mainland Tanzania, though similar (marginally less strict) regulations already exist on the island of Zanzibar. Here, the current law covers a ban on all plastic bags measuring 30 microns in diameter or below.
What alternatives are there?
Plastic has become ubiquitous because of its usefulness and practicality, but there are actually several alternative bagging materials available. Jute (or Hessian) bags, Cotton bags, Linen bags, Muslin bags and Paper bags are among just a few examples of the different types of bag you could consider.
Below are a couple of useful articles that highlight some of these alternative storage options:
Conclusion: Re-think your packing strategy!
Never mind the specifics. Let’s just focus on the positive impact this change is having on the environment. Our message to participants is a clear one - ditch the plastic bags and find an alternative! We appreciate it’s easier said than done, but the sooner we can get used to life without plastics, the less dependent upon it we’ll be! Ultimately, Choose a Challenge pledges to support and promote responsible tourism, and therefore we implore our participants to respect the local laws of the countries in which we operate.
If you have any questions or concerns about the plastic bag ban that haven’t been addressed by this article, please email us at team@chooseachallenge.com, or call us during business hours (Monday to Friday) on 0203 773 4140.