Sanaa hosts national conference on plastic health and environmental risks

The Cancer Control Fund, in collaboration with the General Authority for Environment and Climate Change, organized a national conference in Sanaa to address the health and environmental risks posed by plastic containers and bags. The event focused on strategies to mitigate cancer risks associated with plastic use.

Acting Prime Minister Mohammed Miftah participated in the conference, warning that the use of plastics in Yemen has reached a critical level of danger. He specifically cautioned against the excessive use of plastic containers for hot foods due to the risks they pose to consumer health and the environment, including soil degradation.

During the proceedings, Miftah called for the Ministry of Health and Environment to prepare a larger scientific conference to develop actionable solutions. He also emphasized the need for the General Authority for Standardization, Metrology, and Quality Control to establish clear regulations regarding the manufacturing and circulation of plastics. As a potential alternative, he suggested transitioning to paper bags and containers, noting that while they may have a higher price point, their long-term economic and health benefits are superior.