On October 2, 2025, the grace period established in Law No. 225-20 on Comprehensive Management and Co-processing of Solid Waste expired. This law prohibits the free distribution of single-use plastic bags and the use of expanded polystyrene (foam) containers in businesses and establishments in the country.

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A historic shift towards sustainability

This provision, contained in Article 172 of the law, granted a five-year period for businesses and commercial establishments to migrate toward sustainable alternatives , such as reusable or biodegradable bags, in compliance with the waste reduction and circular economy objectives promoted by the Dominican State.

The purpose of this measure is to reduce environmental pollution caused by the massive use of plastic bags , encourage responsible consumption and promote the transition towards more sustainable production models .

Therefore, this change not only represents an environmental advance, but also a push towards a more conscious corporate culture aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) .

Legislative debate on the application of the law

In parallel, the legislative proposal seeking to amend Law 225-20 continues to be debated in the National Congress and will subsequently be submitted to the Executive Branch for review.

President Luis Abinader has announced that he will monitor the legislation, emphasizing the need for regulations to guarantee transparency and free competition in waste management, without favoring particular interests or concentrations of power.

Consequently, during legislative discussions, the possibility of extending the deadline for an additional five years was raised, with the argument that it would allow small and medium-sized businesses more time to adapt.

However, the Executive has expressed its intention not to enact such an extension, taking into account the position of industrial and environmental sectors that advocate strict compliance with the legal mandate.

Update: November 5, 2025

President Luis Abinader submitted observations to the Law on Solid Waste Management recently approved by Congress, with the purpose of achieving a balance between free enterprise and the protection of the environment and natural resources.

Among the proposed amendments, a 12-month period has been established to gradually phase out single-use plastics and foam products, as stipulated by the law. However, a 24-month extension has been granted for “laptop-type” containers —plates with integrated lids— and trays, due to the current lack of economically viable substitutes.

Charge for non-biodegradable plastic bags

A 12-month deadline has also been set for commercial establishments to begin charging for non-biodegradable plastic bags. During this period, businesses must develop awareness campaigns aimed at promoting the use of reusable or eco-friendly bags.

Additionally, 60 days after the law’s enactment, the import of non-biodegradable plastic products—such as straws, cutlery, lids, and similar items—will be prohibited.

In a communication addressed to the President of the Senate, Ricardo de los Santos, Abinader stated that his observations are based on the principles of environmental protection, promotion of free competition, opposition to monopolistic practices, and the development of sustainable industrial models.

Among the suggested changes is a redefinition of the criteria for locating transfer stations, sanitary landfills, and recovery plants, so that they are not limited by geographic zones but by appropriate technical and distance parameters. The observations also emphasize the need to preserve municipal autonomy, ensuring that the law does not restrict the constitutional powers of municipalities over land use.

The Executive Branch further proposed to adjust the minimum term of contracts between the DO Sostenible Trust and authorized waste managers, to align them with national and international competition standards.

Regarding payment rates for private waste managers, the President maintained the current base, rejecting excessive increases. However, the trust is authorized to review rates annually in accordance with operational costs, profit margins, inflation, devaluation, and transportation expenses.

Finally, the presidential observations emphasize strengthening regulation on plastics and foam, shortening the phase-out timelines and promoting immediate actions such as extended producer responsibility, the reduction of plastic bags in commerce, and the implementation of container return programs.

Highlighted measures of Article 172

Among the most important measures included in Article 172 of Law 225-20 are:

Ban on foam and single-use plastics

As of October 2, 2025, the use of expanded polystyrene (foam) containers for food and beverages will be prohibited.

Producers must join extended responsibility programs , ensuring the recovery, treatment and safe disposal of waste , through the use of oxodegradable or biodegradable materials .

This step is essential to reduce dependence on polluting materials and accelerate the replacement of plastic bags with cleaner and more environmentally friendly options.

Annual evaluation

Likewise, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources will conduct annual studies to evaluate the impact of these measures and propose new corrective actions. These reports will allow for monitoring compliance with Law 225-20 and strengthening public policy on sustainability.

Elimination of free plastic bags

Since the article comes into force, businesses will no longer be able to provide single-use plastic bags free of charge.

From now on, bags must be recyclable, eco-efficient , and carry environmental awareness messages that promote changing habits among the population.

Likewise, this point marks a turning point in waste management in the Dominican Republic, as it encourages consumers to reuse their bags and companies to adopt biodegradable containers and responsible packaging.

National commitment to the environment

With the full implementation of Law 225-20 , the Dominican Republic reaffirms its commitment to environmental protection , waste reduction , and the adoption of sustainable practices that strengthen the green economy.

This measure not only protects natural ecosystems, but also encourages companies to innovate, create ecological alternatives, and actively contribute to the country’s sustainable development.

Ultimately, the elimination of free plastic bags and the ban on foam represent a firm step toward a cleaner, more conscious, and environmentally friendly future.

Finally, with this transformation, the country provides a regional example of how legislation can become a driver of change and sustainability.