The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources issued a resolution this weekend prohibiting the use of plastics on Saona and Catalina islands, a measure that seeks to reduce the use of disposable containers of this type, which negatively impact nature.
During its launch, at an outdoor event on the coast of Saona Island, the sustainability program manager of the state agency, Jorge Ruiz, elaborated on the plan and explained that one of the main objectives is to prevent residents in these communities from using this type of material, as well as preventing it from being brought in by visitors and tourists.
“This project is not only a restrictive method but also seeks to prevent community members from using single-use plastics,” he said during his participation.
Environment Minister Miguel Ceara Hatton considered it extremely important to provide ongoing education to citizens to care for natural environments and thus preserve the environment.
He added that the Caribbean Sea should be a matter of “national security” due to its impact and contributions to tourism in the Dominican Republic.
“If that sea is damaged, what will happen to the country’s main economic activity?” Hatton asked, calling for reflection on the need to take greater care of the Dominican Republic’s main economic resource.
This resolution is not limited to Saona Island but will also apply to Catalina Island, which will become two "sanctuaries" and "treasure troves of life" in the plastic-free Dominican Republic, officials explained.
During an operation carried out last Saturday, 500 bags of garbage were collected, which is equivalent to approximately three tons of garbage composed of plastics, metals, among others, as Ruiz explained in his statement.
The new resolution will have a 60-day period to begin its implementation and work continuously with other entities and community members.
Cover photo: Islasaonatours.com
