Government Imposes Nationwide Ban on Single-Use Plastic Water Bottles Across State Institutions

The use and purchase of single-use plastic water bottles have been officially prohibited in all government institutions from today, following a directive issued by the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government.

The move comes under a special circular dated May 15, which was distributed to ministry secretaries, provincial chief secretaries, heads of departments, as well as leaders of corporations and statutory bodies.

Under the new directive, all state institutions are required to immediately cease the procurement and use of single-use plastic water bottles as part of broader efforts to improve solid waste management practices within the public sector.

The circular further instructs institutional heads to take proactive measures to curb the use of other single-use plastic products within their respective organizations.

Authorities noted that provisions outlined in an earlier public administration circular issued on April 2 of last year will continue to remain in force alongside the latest measures.

As part of the initiative, government institutions have been encouraged to adopt the internationally recognized “3R” waste management strategy — Reduce, Reuse and Recycle — in their daily operations.

The Ministry stated that the circular was issued with the approval of the Ministry of Environment, underscoring the government’s continued commitment to promoting environmentally sustainable practices throughout the state sector.

Officials expect the policy to contribute to reducing plastic waste generation and strengthening responsible environmental management within public institutions nationwide.