Nepal Bans Plastic Bottles at Four-Star and Above Hotels
New Regulation to Reduce Health Hazards and Environmental Concerns
In a recent move to address health hazards and environmental concerns, the Nepali government has banned plastic bottles at four-star and above hotels in the country. The ban, effective immediately, applies to all four-star, five-star, five-star deluxe, and luxury hotels and resorts, according to Narayan Prasad Regmi, director general at the Department of Tourism.
Extensive Reach of the Ban
The directive issued by the Department of Tourism on Tuesday requires high-end hotels and resorts to discontinue serving water in plastic bottles and instead use glass bottles and metal utensils. This new regulation is in line with the growing global movement to reduce single-use plastics and minimize their impact on the environment.
Justification for the Ban
According to Regmi, the ban was issued "considering the potential health hazards and environmental concerns." He noted that the agency is planning to extend the ban to other hotels and resorts in the coming days after holding consultations with stakeholders.
Industry Reaction to the Ban
Hotel Association Nepal, which represents over 300 hotels, resorts, and guesthouses in Nepal, announced in June 2022 that all types of throwaway plastic bottles, drinking straws, plates, drink stirrers, cutlery, toothbrushes, and combs, among others, would be prohibited at all of its member establishments starting from January 1, 2025. This move is seen as a positive step towards reducing plastic waste in the country.
Implementation and Next Steps
While the ban is already in effect, the Department of Tourism is expected to work closely with high-end hotels and resorts to ensure a smooth transition to the new plastic-free system. The agency will also continue to monitor the impact of the ban and make any necessary adjustments to the directive.
Conclusion
The ban on plastic bottles at four-star and above hotels in Nepal is a significant step towards reducing plastic waste and protecting the environment. As the country continues to tackle this issue, it is essential to engage with stakeholders and monitor the progress of this initiative.
FAQs
- What is the scope of the ban?
The ban applies to four-star, five-star, five-star deluxe, and luxury hotels and resorts. - What is the deadline for implementation?
The ban is already in effect, and the Department of Tourism is expected to work with high-end hotels and resorts to ensure a smooth transition. - What is the plan for other hotels and resorts?
The agency is planning to extend the ban to other hotels and resorts in the coming days after holding consultations with stakeholders. - What is the stance of Hotel Association Nepal on plastic waste?
Hotel Association Nepal has announced that it will prohibit all types of throwaway plastic bottles, drinking straws, plates, drink stirrers, cutlery, toothbrushes, and combs, among others, at its member establishments starting from January 1, 2025.