Announcing the proposal to the ministry, the Municipality of Ankaran said that it had been indeed established as a result of the resident's wish to contribute to sustainable development, protection of marine ecosystems and reducing urbanisation plans.

This is an expression of support for the wishes of the Environment Ministry, NGOs, environmental experts and increasing number of residents that Slovenia fully abolishes the use of plastic bags, it added.

Being located along the sea coast, the municipality is particularly inclined to reducing the use of plastic bags due to the negative impact of plastics on the sea.

"The people of Ankaran see an opportunity for the municipality and the state in long-term sustainable development which respects natural resources," Ankaran Mayor Gregor Strmčnik was quoted as saying.