June 1 was supposed to be the day when the state introduced an all-out ban on all single-use plastic bags in Albania.

However, despite numerous statements made by government officials, including PM Rama, that thin plastic bags would be banned and replaced by thicker, recyclable ones that could be used multiple times, nothing seems to have changed in markets across the capital city.

“Here are the ones that are supposed to be harmful and banned. They gave it us at a store,” – said a citizen.

Bags allowed from June 1 should be 50 cm long and 24 cm wide, with a capacity of up to 10 kg and a 70-micron thickness.

These types of bags cost 15-25 ALL.

However, several citizens seem to have decided to start using canvas bags or paper ones.

“I took a canvas bag to hold my bread,” – said another citizen.

Euronews Albania contacted the State Inspectorate for Market Supervision which is responsible for implementing this new law and they answered by saying that this is only the first phase during which business owners and citizens will be made aware of the new rules.

According to the new law, each person who doesn’t oblige by these new rules will face a fine of 500 000 ALL up to 1 500 000 ALL.

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