In conclusion of its recent study, on July 5, 2020, the Sustainable Growth Program (SGP) of CEDARE in cooperation with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and in coordination with the Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Industry of Egypt held a webinar on measures to address single-use plastic bags in Egypt. It was held with the presence of H.E. Dr. Yasmine Fouad, Minister of Environment of Egypt, H.E. Noke Masaki Ambassador of Japan in Egypt, and Mr. IWASAKI Akihiro, Senior Representative of JICA Egypt Office, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA),  among other esteemed representatives of  key stakeholders and experts including the Plastic Technology Center and the Hurghada Environmental Protection Agency (HEPCA) among others. Key outcomes included the emphasis on the need to develop a legal framework to enable the transition towards such circular economy transitions and to enable and incentivize innovation and development of green businesses, as well as nudging the necessary behavior change among consumers.

Throughout January-March 2020, a situation analysis was conducted for the status of Single Use Plastic Bags measures in Egypt and an exploration of opportunities to address challenges. This status update and recommended way forward is in attempt to explore opportunities for collaboration among stakeholders, nationally and internationally, to move forward in the transition towards a circular economy and to align efforts and exchange experience and know-how in the specific topic of plastic bags.

For the policy component of the study, you can access the Policy Brief here and comments are welcome at SGP@cedare.int:

Policy Brief_Plastic Bags Reduction_052020