Kenya Strengthens Plastic Pollution Fight with Ban on Plastic Bags for Organic Waste

Kenya has taken a notable action in its battle against plastic pollution by banning the use of plastic bags for organic waste disposal. The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) issued a directive on April 8, 2024, requiring Kenyan citizens to transition to 100 percent biodegradable garbage bags within a 90-day compliance window.

This move builds upon Kenya's 2017 ban on the manufacture, importation, and use of plastic carrier bags for commercial and household packaging. The latest prohibition targets the use of conventional plastic bags or bin liners for collecting organic waste such as leftover food. Starting 90 days after the notice, plastic bags will be prohibited at markets, and all households, public and private sector institutions, functions, and events must segregate their organic waste and place it in biodegradable bags.

Why this matters: Kenya's ban on plastic bags for organic waste disposal strengthens the country's position as a leader in combating plastic pollution in Africa and globally. The move aligns with the Sustainable Waste Management Act, 2022, and offers an opportunity for citizens, businesses, and waste service providers to adapt to new regulations and contribute to a cleaner environment.

NEMA has instructed all county governments and private waste services to supply biodegradable bags to their clients. However, analysts predict that this initiative may lead to an increase in the cost of garbage collection, especially for households.

The Kisumu government has also taken action, warning private garbage collectors against dumping waste at the former Kachok dumpsite and urging them to use the new Kasese dumpsite in Muhoroni. The county has established new garbage collection points to maintain the city's cleanliness.

Kenya's plastic bag bans come as the world faces a "triple planetary crisis" of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss, with plastics being a common factor in all three. Greenpeace is calling for decisive action against the climate and plastics crises at the upcoming 6th session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) in Nairobi.

The phased elimination of plastic bags for garbage disposal underscores Kenya's commitment to environmental conservation and responsible waste management. NEMA Director General Mamo B. Mamo stated, "The ban on plastic carrier bags has played a significant role in reducing plastic pollution in the country. This directive on plastic bags for garbage collection marks another milestone in Kenya's journey towards a sustainable future."

Key Takeaways

• Kenya bans plastic bags for organic waste disposal, requiring biodegradable bags.
• The ban aims to combat plastic pollution and aligns with Kenya's 2022 Waste Act.
• Garbage collection costs may rise, and Kisumu warns against illegal dumping.
• Kenya's plastic bag bans are part of a global effort to address climate, pollution, and biodiversity.
• The ban marks a milestone in Kenya's journey towards environmental sustainability.