Banks, businesses and major private sector companies are being urged to join a nationwide campaign to replace single-use plastic bags with reusable cloth alternatives carrying their own corporate branding.
The initiative, launched by Northern Municipal Council member Bassem Ali Abu Idrees, aims to encourage companies to sponsor and distribute environment friendly reusable bags through shopping malls, traditional markets, retail outlets and community events as part of their corporate social responsibility programmes.
Mr Abu Idrees said letters had already been sent to a number of banks and national companies inviting them to take part in the campaign, accompanied by modern design concepts for reusable cloth and paper bags featuring each institution’s logo and identity.
Mr Abu Idrees
“We want the private sector to become a genuine partner in protecting Bahrain’s environment,” he said yesterday during the launch at the council’s headquarters in Budaiya.
“These bags are more than shopping carriers. They are practical tools that promote sustainability while also serving as a daily reminder of each company’s commitment to environmental responsibility.”
He said Bahrain had made significant progress in promoting sustainable practices and reducing dependence on single-use plastics, making the initiative a natural extension of Bahrain’s environmental ambitions.
Another proposed design for the bag
“Every reusable bag replaces dozens, if not hundreds, of plastic bags over its lifetime,” he said.
“That means less plastic waste, cleaner neighbourhoods and greater public awareness about adopting environmentally responsible lifestyles.”
Mr Abu Idrees added that participating companies would also benefit by increasing their visibility within the community.
“The bags become mobile advertisements carrying corporate logos alongside environmental messages,” he explained.
“It is a simple initiative that delivers environmental, social and marketing benefits at the same time.”
He suggested that thousands of bags could be distributed through commercial centres, neighbourhood markets, supermarkets and national celebrations to maximise public participation and encourage people to make reusable bags part of their everyday routine.
Supporting the proposal, Northern Municipal Council member Abdulla Shareeda Al Thawadi said environmental sustainability was a shared responsibility that required stronger partnerships between government bodies, businesses and the wider community.
Mr Al Thawadi
“This is a practical initiative with long-term benefits,” he said. “When the private sector contributes to projects that reduce plastic waste, everyone wins. It protects the environment, strengthens corporate social responsibility and encourages the public to adopt more sustainable habits.”
Mr Al Thawadi said Bahrain’s companies had consistently demonstrated their willingness to support national causes and expressed confidence that many would embrace the campaign.
“We have outstanding national institutions that understand the importance of investing in community initiatives,” he said.
“I hope to see reusable bags carrying the logos of Bahraini banks and companies becoming a familiar sight across markets and shopping centres.”
Mr Abu Idrees said achieving a more sustainable Bahrain depended on collective action.
“Environmental protection cannot be achieved by government efforts alone,” he said.
“It requires government agencies, businesses and civil society to work hand-in-hand. I am confident our national institutions will respond positively and help create a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future for Bahrain and generations to come.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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