Manufacturers Endorse Global Charter on Plastics

Manufacturers have today pledged to join a global initiative to manage plastic waste in the country.

By establishing the Kenya Plastics Action Plan, manufacturers under KAM are embarking on  collaborative strategies towards the reuse and recycling of plastic waste. The Action Plan resonates with the Ocean Plastics Charter, which is a long term private sector initiative on the sustainable manufacture, use and recycling of plastics

Speaking at the event, National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Director General, Prof. Geoffrey Wahungu urged manufacturers to sign on to the Charter as a means of achieving sustainability in waste management.

‘I want to assure industry that we will work together to develop predictable policies. We are now focusing on a framework of partnerships that will ensure we achieve a common objective in waste management. We also want to see the progress of the KAM Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Scheme ,which is paramount in the management of waste,’ Prof Wahungu said.

Also at the event, KAM Chair Mr. Sachen Gudka, noted that development and progress of any economy goes hand in hand with waste management. Adding that, we are now at a critical juncture where we need to address best practices in particular regarding plastics.

‘We have been keen on promoting the establishment and implementation of plastics Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes by manufacturers across our membership. With the development of a Kenya Plastics Action Plan, KAM aims to bring the Ocean Plastics Charter to life within our national context,’ Mr Gudka added.

By endorsing this Charter, the business community commits to, sustainable design, production and after use markets, plastic collection management and other systems infrastructure through Extended Producer Responsibility schemes and supporting research and innovation and new technologies.

Head of Canadian Delegation First Secretary (Political)/ Deputy Permanent Representative, Mr Marcus Davies reiterated that plastics represent an important part of any economy.

‘Partnerships between the private sector and government are fundamental in addressing waste management. The Government of Kenya endorsed the Ocean Plastics Charter in 2018, and we are glad that the same momentum is being demonstrated by industry,’ Mr Davies concluded.

Among the organizations that endorsed the Ocean Plastics Charter include Bidco Africa, Cooper K Brands Ltd, Coca Cola Beverages Africa, Unilever, Kenya Limited Melvins Tea and T3 Limited.