It may be one of the most secretive governments in the world, but when it comes to the environment, it seems that even Myanmar’s military junta is keeping abreast of global trends to battle non-degradable waste. Citing state media, several news outlets have reported that the authorities in Yangon (also known as Rangoon), the country’s largest and most commercially active city, have banned plastic bags.

“Production of polythene bags and ropes, and storage and sale of those items at stores and groceries in the townships are not allowed starting from 22 April,” agencies quote the New Light of Myanmar newspaper. The authorities reportedly warned that factories that ignored the new decree would lose their operating licenses and face legal action. Two years earlier, news sources say, the authorities in Mandalay, located north of Yangon, had successfully instituted a similar ban.