In commemoration of World Environment Day, three stores in Havana—a grocery store, an industrial market, and a currency exchange store—launched an experimental program to replace plastic bags with paper containers.
This action is part of a joint effort to reduce pollution caused by single-use plastics in Cuba, reported the newspaper Tribuna de La Habana.
The initiative was driven by the "Less Plastic Waste" project, the "Integrated Alliance Together for Less Plastic Waste," and received support from the small and medium enterprises Yoan2 con lo mejor and PRINTea, along with state entities such as the Business Trade Group and the Business Administration Group.
At the Marea Alta market, customers were clearly surprised to receive their products in paper cartons instead of the usual plastic bags.
The salespeople explained the environmental objective of the proposal, which aimed to raise awareness among the population about the need to gradually replace plastic.
“We are conducting a joint initiative with the Ministry of Science, Technology, and the Environment (CITMA), as part of the project 'Less Plastic Waste,'” explained Alfredo Luis Gil Rodríguez, the project leader, which is supported by the National Environmental Fund and is directed by the Institute of Tropical Geography (IGT).
He detailed that the goal is to educate consumers about more sustainable alternatives and to reduce environmental pollution, especially that caused by microplastics.
The SMEs involved provided the biodegradable containers.
The company Yoan2, with the best, dedicated to manufacturing cartridges and paper boxes, offered a demonstration of its solutions at Marea Alta.
Its director, Yoan Guevara Sierra, insisted that functional, durable, and economically viable formats must be sought: “We are practically invaded by plastics. As a small and medium-sized enterprise, we are looking for alternatives that are cost-competitive and reduce environmental impact,” he stated.
For its part, PRINTea, specialized in paper and cardboard products, supplied packaging to warehouse 401-07 in Old Havana and to the industrial market (Tencen) on Obispo.
Its president, Yosbel Ávila Sánchez, detailed that they are developing biopolymers to coat containers and make them more resistant to fats and moisture, which will expand their applicability.
Clients like Vilma Machado, a medical professor, described the experience as "wonderful" and emphasized the urgency of replacing plastics with biodegradable materials.
However, the publication does not specify whether this is a one-time initiative for World Environment Day or if it will be sustained over time.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Paper Bag Test in Havana
What is the goal of replacing plastic bags with paper bags in Havana?
The aim is to reduce environmental pollution caused by single-use plastics and educate consumers about more sustainable alternatives. This initiative is part of the "Less Plastic Waste" project, in collaboration with state entities and small and medium-sized enterprises, seeking to raise awareness about the need to gradually replace plastic in Cuba.
Which stores are participating in the experimental paper bag program in Havana?
The stores involved in this program include a grocery store, an industrial market, and a currency store in Havana. The Marea Alta market is one of the stores where customers have received their products in paper cartridges as part of this environmental initiative. The small and medium enterprises Yoan2 con lo mejor and PRINTea are providing the paper packaging.
What challenges does the implementation of paper bags face in Cuba?
Although the pilot test has been well received, the challenges include the need to adjust regulations, educate consumers, and ensure the economic sustainability of the alternatives. Furthermore, it is crucial to build public-private partnerships to ensure the long-term success of this initiative.
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