Enforcing Plastic Bag Fines in Issyk-Kul Region
Kyrgyzstan Takes Steps to Reduce Plastic Waste
In an effort to reduce the use of plastic products, Kyrgyzstan is set to impose fines for the sale and use of polymer film bags. Almaz Oskonbaev, a specialist at the Waste Management Department of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision, shared details with the 24.kg news agency.
Under the Code of Offences, the first violation of the ban on selling or using plastic bags and products in designated areas will result in a warning. A repeat offense within a year could lead to fines of 30 calculated rates for individuals and 100 calculated rates for legal entities.
Oskonbaev emphasized that these rules will apply to both locals and tourists. He stressed the importance of everyone taking responsibility for avoiding plastic use in the Issyk-Kul region. Information boards will be installed at entry points to inform the public about the plastic-free zone.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and its territorial offices, along with the environmental technical supervision service, will be responsible for issuing fines. Oskonbaev noted that tourist police and other agencies will not have the authority to penalize individuals for this violation.
However, with only 1-2 inspectors in each district, and about 10-15 employees throughout the Issyk-Kul region, enforcing the ban may present challenges, especially during the tourist season.
It is important to highlight that the ban on polymer film bags and plastic products throughout the republic is set to be enforced starting January 1, 2027. The Parliament is considering revisions to the law to further address plastic waste concerns.
