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.
(Planet Ark, 08/11/2006)
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