Kenya’s National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has declared a ban on plastic bags for waste collection and disposal. This isn’t just a fleeting announcement; it’s a call to action that demands immediate attention.
A notice dated April 8, gives Kenyans a 90-day window to transition away from using plastic bags. “For the foregoing, therefore and to ensure environmentally sound management of the organic waste fraction, the Authority directs that within 90 days from the date of this notice,” NEMA emphasised.
“The use of conventional plastic bags/bin liners for collection of organic waste shall thus cease forthwith,” the notice sternly declares. It’s a clear message echoing the urgency of environmental responsibility.
The Authority has directed all garbage to be carried in biodegradable garbage bags. It has also directed all county governments and private waste service providers licenced by NEMA to provide their clients with 100% biodegradable bags.
“All organic waste generated by households, private sector and public sector institutions, private and public functions and events; shall strictly be segregated and placed in 100% biodegradable garbage bags/bin liners only,” NEMA reiterated.
This directive isn’t a standalone decision. It’s anchored in Section 12 of the Sustainable Waste Management Act of 2022. The section requires that; (1) All public and private sector entities segregate non-hazardous waste into organic and non-organic fractions, (2) the segregated waste be placed in properly labelled and colour-coded receptacles, bins, containers and bags. (3) All waste service providers to collect, handle and transport segregated waste.
This move follows a seven-year gap since Kenya’s previous ban on plastic carrier bags back in 2017. Initiated by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, that ban marked the beginning of Kenya’s commitment to reducing plastic pollution. Now, with this new directive, Kenya reaffirms its dedication to a greener future.