Dominica has announced a dramatic next step in its journey to become the world's first green climate-resilient nation.
The Caribbean island has set out to completely ban common plastics and single-use styrofoam cups and food containers, effective January 2019.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit revealed the latest sustainability effort during a budget address last month.
"Dominica prides itself as the 'Nature Isle.' We must in every way deserve and reflect that designation," he stated. "The issue of solid waste management affects that perception and we continue to grapple with it."
While the list of banned items hasn't been finalized, it will certainly include plastic straws, plastic plates, plastic forks, plastic knives, styrofoam cups and styrofoam containers.
The ambitious undertaking comes less than one year after Dominica was left devastated by Hurricane Maria. The island has since been working with the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) to prepare for future natural disasters.
Several other destinations and travel suppliers around the world have pledged to do away with plastic straws and other items in recent months, including some hotels, theme parks, airport restaurants, cruise lines and tour operators.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
