Operators of five businesses have been found guilty of breaching the plastic packaging materials prohibition order concerning single use plastic bags.

The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) said in its drive to enforce the ban on single use plastics, five business, were found in breach of the order, by the corporate area parish court today.

Six matters were mentioned in court.

The defendants were the Orient Express limited, Doreen’s Restaurant, Taurus Garden, Azan’s Discount Fabric limited, Kidtopia limited and Juici Patties limited.

NEPA said the court handed down sentences of $30,000 or 30 days in prison, in 4 of the matters.

NEPA added that in recognition of its record of good environmental stewardship, Juici Patties limited was sentenced $15,000 or 30 days in prison.

Meantime, Kidtopia limited, pleaded not guilty.

That matter is listed to be mentioned again on Thursday, February 6.

Nepa’s attorney, Stewart Panton, noted that NEPA has engaged in extensive public education campaigns, and the enforcement team continues to work with stakeholders.

Panton added that despite this, there are still people and companies intent on flouting the law.

He said the agency has ramped up its efforts and will continue to take action against offenders.

NEPA is inviting businesses to comply with the plastic ban.

Failure to do so may result in criminal charges being brought against operators.

Members of the public are being reminded that it is an offence to import, manufacture, distribute or use single-use plastic and plastic drinking straws.

The importation, manufacture, distribution and use of expanded polystyrene foam products used in the food and beverage industry, is also prohibited.