The gazette notification requiring shops to charge for handled polythene bags comes into effect today (November 1).
Accordingly, retailers must charge customers for such shopping bags when selling goods. The move aims to reduce polythene use and its harmful impact on the environment.
Central Environmental Authority (CEA) Chairman Prof. Tilak Hewawasam said shops will no longer issue polythene bags free of charge from today.
He urged consumers to support environmental protection by bringing their own reusable bags when shopping.
