South African manufacturers and retail outlets, who do not comply with the revised compulsory specifications for plastic carrier bags and flat bags, will be charged appropriately. This warning has been issued by the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS).

“Those found in possession of plastic bags that do not meet the requirements of the revised compulsory specifications will have to hand them over to the NRCS to be destroyed,” states general manager for Chemicals, Mechanicals and Materials at the NRCS, Thomas Madzivhe.

He explains that plastic bags that are thinner than 24 microns (micrometres) do not meet the necessary requirements and that they are impossible to recycle.

In addition, he elaborated that these plastic bags contribute to littering.

While laying down the law Madzivhe stated: “Everyone must just comply. This is compulsory. There will be no more negotiations. Those who do not comply will be charged.”

The revised compulsory specifications came into effect on 23 October 2014.

The revised compulsory specifications dictate the thickness and the printing of plastic bags, but do not include bread bags, refuse bags, bin liners, household plastic bags and primary packaging.

Madzivhe has stated that non-complying manufacturers, distributors and retailers will be taken to court where the court will decide whether a fine can be paid or if a prison sentence is necessary.

The NCRS launched a national campaign on 27 October 2014 to inspect the plastic carrier bag industry to ensure compliance with the latest compulsory specifications.

The implementation of the revised compulsory specifications for plastic carrier bags and flat bags is aimed at reducing plastic litter in the environment and promoting the reuse and recycling of plastic bags. It was first promulgated in 2003 in conjunction with the then Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism.