THE set up for banning plastic bags in Western Province is on phase’s process.

Over the next three to four months its process will be addressed on how to implement it.

This is according to the Western Province Premier Hon Wayne Maepioh now on its work programme and plan.

“It is market vendors and those still relying on plastic bags are the ones we will be trying to educate as much along the process,” said Hon Wayne Maepioh.

“Rather than using plastic bags we will make awareness to them that local woven baskets are required to use as they are renewable and suitable for the environment,” he said.

Last week, a two-day’s workshop was held being part of the process leading up for the ban purposely to discuss on suitable adaptation processes once the plastic bags ban is passed.

Involved in the workshop were the provincial’s environment relevant Officers and stakeholder’s technical representatives.

“Plastic rubbish has become an epidemic within the province so I have a dream that we must address issues as this to look after our environment,” said Hon Maepioh.

During recent visits, The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Country Officer and the Australian and New Zealand High Commissioners have all pledged their support to the Premier for the move on banning plastic bags.