The Ministry of Public Administration has issued a circular to improve solid waste management in state institutions.

The circular directs all institutions to stop purchasing and using single-use plastic water bottles from May 31.

Heads of institutions have been instructed to prevent the use of single-use plastics within their organisations.

The circular applies to Ministry Secretaries, Provincial Chief Secretaries and heads of departments and boards.

State institutions are required to follow the “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” concept under existing guidelines.