Kenya bans plastic bags for organic rubbish

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has imposed a ban on the production, distribution, and use of organic plastic carrier bags and flat bags, including those used for garbage and bin liners, for both commercial and household purposes.
In a statement issued on Monday, NEMA outlined that all organic waste generated by households, private sector entities, public sector institutions, religious institutions, and at private and public events must be segregated and placed exclusively in 100% biodegradable garbage bags or bin liners.
“The government of Kenya, through the Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, banned plastic carrier bags and flat bags used for commercial and household packaging in 2017, as per Gazette notice Nos.2334 & 2356. This included garbage bags and bin liners,” the statement clarified.
NEMA emphasized the need for segregated waste collection and transportation to designated Material Recycling Facilities for processing. It mandated the immediate cessation of the use of conventional plastic bags for organic waste collection.
“All County Governments and private waste service providers licensed by NEMA are directed to supply their clients with 100% biodegradable garbage bags or bin liners exclusively,” NEMA stated.
Individuals have been given a 90-day grace period to ensure compliance with the regulations regarding organic waste management.
NEMA operates under the Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act (EMCA) No. 8 of 1999, with a mandate to supervise and coordinate all matters related to the environment in Kenya. It serves as the principal government instrument for implementing environmental policies.
In accordance with Section twelve of the Sustainable Waste Management Act, 2022, all waste must be segregated into organic and non-organic fractions and placed in properly labeled and color-coded receptacles, bins, containers, and bags. The Act also mandates waste service providers to collect, handle, and transport segregated waste.
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