Kenya Launched New Roadmap to Boost Plastic Recycling

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The Kenyan Ministry of Environment and Forestry has partnered with the plastics industry in the country to launch a new life to plastic recycling initiatives across the nation, thus stimulating the growth of the circular economy and protecting the environment. Kenya is the second African country, after South Africa, to launch a roadmap to manage plastic waste.

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The National Plastic Roadmap 2030 proposes action plan to eliminate the use of single-use plastics, which is largely believed to be the worst polluter among all. It suggests eco-friendly alternatives, which will not only ensure protection of the environment but also lead to creation of additional job opportunities.

According to Ayub Macharia, Director of Environmental Education and Awareness in the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, the roadmap is expected to re-invigorate plastic waste recycling in the country, in addition to creating new jobs and improving the overall economic and environmental health in Kenya.

As per rough estimates by authorities, the country generates approximately 22,000 metric tons of solid waste every day, out of which plastics account for almost one-fifth. Only around 8% of the total plastic waste in the country is recycled, with the remaining ending up either in landfills or waterways.