New Waste Management Law in Montenegro: Ban on the Use of Plastic Bags

Montenegro has adopted a new Waste Management Law, aimed at reducing pollution and protecting the environment. The biggest changes concern plastic bags and single-use products, which represent one of the most serious ecological issues.

Below is an overview of the most important rules and obligations that are coming into force.

BAN ON THE USE OF BAGS FROM 15 TO 50 MICRONS

Starting from October 20, 2024, the use and sale of plastic bags with a thickness of 15 to 50 microns is prohibited.

These bags are most commonly used in stores and are among the most harmful to nature, as they quickly end up as waste in the environment.

BAGS UNDER 15 MICRONS

Bags thinner than 15 microns will be allowed exclusively for packaging:

•         fruit and vegetables,

•          meat,

•         cheese and other products that do not have their own packaging.

BAGS OVER 50 MICRONS

For thicker bags (over 50 microns), new rules have been introduced:

•         Retailers are obliged to pay a fee of 0.03€ per bag.

•         The fee is calculated based on the monthly report on the number of bags placed on the market.

•         Reports must be submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency, and the collected funds are paid into the Environmental Protection Fund.

OBLIGATIONS OF RETAILERS:

•         They must have a supplier’s specification for the bags and keep it in their documentation.

•         Bags must be recorded through retail accounting and calculations.

•         In the store, bags must be properly labeled and clearly priced.

Important: Branded bags may not be charged.

BAN ON SINGLE-USE PLASTIC PRODUCTS

The law also bans the use of certain single-use plastic products, including:

•         cotton swabs,

•         cutlery (forks, knives, spoons, chopsticks),

•          plastic plates,

•         straws.

PAPER BAGS

The use of paper bags remains permitted, and the restrictions applied to plastic bags do not apply to them.

The new law brings major changes for retailers and consumers, but it also represents a significant step forward in protecting nature in Montenegro. Reducing the use of plastic encourages a transition to more environmentally friendly solutions and contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment.