According to reports by the United Nations Environment Programme, the packaging industry stands out as the primary contributor to global single-use plastic waste.
Around 36 per cent of all plastics produced are used in packaging.
This category encompasses single-use plastic containers for food and beverages, with a staggering 85 per cent unfortunately ending up in landfills or mismanaged waste.
Now, this is just plastic, remember there is glass, metal, paper and cartons.
The global discourse on environmental conservation and sustainability has reached a crucial juncture.
As we grapple with the escalating challenges of waste management, pollution, and resource depletion, it becomes increasingly evident that business as usual is no longer an option.
We must embrace innovative solutions that align with our shared commitment to safeguarding the planet for future generations. One such solution is Extended Producer Responsibility.
EPR is a paradigm shift in our approach to waste management.
It places the onus on producers to take responsibility for the entire life cycle of their products, from creation to disposal.
This revolutionary concept not only encourages eco-friendly product design but also advocates for efficient recycling, reduced waste generation, and, most importantly, a shift towards a circular economy.
Kenya has taken a significant step forward in the ongoing global battle against environmental degradation.
The National Environmental Management Authority's recent 2-month notice to producers, mandating their participation in Producer Responsibility Organizations and the creation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) plans, is a milestone for the nation's environmental conservation efforts.
At its core, EPR is about accountability. It compels manufacturers to consider the environmental impact of their products, spurring innovation in eco-design and materials selection.
By doing so, businesses can reduce the ecological footprint of their goods, thereby contributing to the larger goal of sustainability.
EPR fosters collaboration among stakeholders. It unites governments, producers, consumers, and waste management entities in a collective effort to combat environmental degradation.
EPR programs around the world have demonstrated remarkable success in reducing landfill waste, conserving resources, and minimizing pollution.
In Kenya, the recent implementation of the Sustainable Waste Management Act (2022) has underscored the importance of EPR. Producers are now legally obligated to manage the end-of-life disposal of their products, making EPR not just a noble initiative but a legal mandate.
This legislation marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards a greener, more sustainable future.
However, successful EPR implementation demands concerted effort.
It necessitates robust infrastructure for waste collection and recycling, public awareness campaigns, and the active engagement of all stakeholders.
It's a multifaceted approach that requires unwavering commitment.
In conclusion, EPR is not just a plan; it's a blueprint for a sustainable future.
It empowers us to reimagine our relationship with products and waste, fostering a circular economy where resources are conserved, pollution is minimized, and the environment thrives.
As Kenya and the world at large embrace EPR, we take a decisive step towards a brighter, greener future.
The time for EPR is now, and it's a responsibility we cannot afford to ignore.
The writer is the Corporate Communication Officer of Kenya Extended Producer Responsibility Organization and can be reached via [email protected].
