Marine Life & Conservation
Plastic in the Red Sea: Hurghada's single-use plastic ban and clean-up dives
Since Decree no. 167 of 2019, the Red Sea Governorate has banned single-use plastic bags in food-related outlets and single-use plastic cutlery and dishware in restaurants, cafés and on safari and daily boats. HEPCA runs island, beach and underwater clean-ups with dive centres — one underwater clean-up in Hurghada with PADI professionals collected about 1.5 tonnes of debris.
By 71 Guardians · Published 19 Oct 2026
What does the plastic ban cover?
- Food-related outlets — restaurants, supermarkets, butchers, fisheries, pharmacies — can't use single-use plastic bags.
- Restaurants, coffee shops and safari and daily boats can't use single-use plastic cutlery and dishware.
- Heavy-duty garbage bags are exempt.
What do clean-up dives find?
In a September 2020 clean-up in Hurghada, HEPCA and PADI professionals collected about 1.5 tonnes of debris — around a quarter of a tonne of rubber, mainly tyres, and the rest plastic, metal and clothing discarded from boats. Their message to boat crews: get rid of waste on land.
How can visitors help?
Refuse single-use plastic, never throw anything overboard, pick up litter you can safely remove, and support HEPCA's campaigns.
Frequently asked questions
Can I join a clean-up dive?
HEPCA organises clean-ups with dive centres — ask us if one is running during your stay.
Why is plastic dangerous for turtles?
HEPCA lists plastic debris that turtles may swallow among the threats they face.
Questions before you dive with us?
Message our team on WhatsApp — we're divers in Hurghada and happy to help.
Chat with us on WhatsAppSources
- No Plastic Campaign in the Red Sea — HEPCA
- World Ocean Day Clean-ups — HEPCA
- Turtles of the Red Sea — HEPCA