The Theme for the World Environment Day 2023 is under the campaign #BeatPlasticPollution, 'Ecosystem Restoration'.
It is a reminder that people's action on plastic matters as the material is slowly seeping into our oceans, soil and forest and causing irreparable damage. The day is hosted by Côte d'Ivoire and supported by the Netherlands.
Here are some of the places that have banned plastic:
1. BARBADOS
The eastern Caribbean island nation put a ban on single-use plastic such as cups, cutlery, straws, egg trays, and styrofoam containers.
2. BALI, INDONESIA
Bali is a tropical paradise, visited by lakhs of travellers from across the world. In 2022, the Provincial Government in Bali had announced plans to ban single-use plastics by year end.
3. ARUBA
Aruba is one of the four countries forming the Kingdom of the Netherlands. In 2017, the country announced a ban on single-use plastic items and styrofoam boxes, the nation is one of the top destinations working for environmental conservation.
4. DOMINICA
A stunning Caribbean island nation, Dominica is a sanctuary for sperm whales. To protect its sea and environment, Dominica has put a strict ban on plastic and styrofoam packaging.
5. INDIA
From July 1, 2022, India banned single-use plastic items that have low utility but are frequently littered around, such as plastic straws.
6. MACHU PICCHU
The historical attraction in Peru attracts travellers from all over the world. Being a popular place, the destination was struggling from plastic but it's now prohibited to enter this protected site with cups and single-use plastic bottles, Styrofoam containers.
7. CHILE
Chile is the first South American nation to ban single-use plastic bags. The decision was taken in 2018.
8. KOH SAMET
Koh Samet is a pretty island in Thailand. It banned plastic bags and styrofoam packaging in November 2018.
9. COSTA RICA
This Central American country is among prime ecotourism destinations in the world. In 2019, a law was passed prohibiting the single-use plastic in the nation.
10. RWANDA
The East African nation takes pride in being one of the cleanest destinations in the world. in 2019, a law was passed to ban single-use plastic in the nation.