The government in Northern Cyprus has made a new law to help the environment. Starting from January 1st, shops will not be allowed to give out thin, single-use plastic shopping bags. This is because these bags create a lot of pollution.
An official, Fikri Ataoglu, said the rules are now ready. He explained that pollution from tiny plastic pieces, called microplastics, is a very big problem now in Northern Cyprus and all over the world. The ban targets the thin bags people often get in shops because they break easily and harm nature.
This is the second step in a plan to reduce plastic waste. The first step began in July 2023. At that time, the government banned plastic items like forks and plates. It also made shops charge money for other single-use plastics. Some businesses were worried about this change at first. However, big international coffee shops in the area found solutions, like using paper straws instead.
The government is telling people about the new bag ban so everyone can prepare. The main goal is to use less plastic, stop microplastic pollution, and leave a cleaner world for the future. The law only bans the very thin bags. Thicker, stronger plastic bags that people can reuse are still allowed.
Northern Cyprus is an island, and plastic waste is very bad for its sea and coast. The government hopes this ban will protect nature and people's health. For it to work, everyone will need to start using reusable bags when they go shopping.