Nema announced on Tuesday a strategy forum aimed at engaging production companies in the battle against waste management challenges. This forum, organized in conjunction with the sixth United Environment Assembly (UNEA6) session, seeks to address the theme of Circular Economy and Extended Producer Responsibilities (EPR) in tackling pollution control.
Participating companies include the Kenya Association of Manufacturers, Kenya Private Sector Alliance, Worldwide Fund Kenya, and county governors. The initiative is guided by the Sustainable Waste Management Act 2022 Section 13(1), which mandates producers to shoulder extended producer obligations, aiming to mitigate pollution and environmental impacts associated with their products in the Kenyan market and subsequent waste generation.
The forum’s agenda covers various parameters, including product management, establishment of collection points, county-level operations, transportation logistics, safe recycling, and disposal techniques. Through this platform, stakeholders aim to delve into detailed discussions regarding product volume, identification, tracking, and adherence to Environmental Impact Assessment standards for drop-off collection points and public awareness campaigns.
County leaders will also play a crucial role in the discussions, focusing on assessing the cost implications of waste management operations per county. Additionally, considerations will extend to examining contracts with transport providers and the role of waste processing facilities in fulfilling EPR mandates.
Mamo B. Mamo, Director General of Nema, underscored the forum’s significance in addressing producers’ responsibilities concerning waste management. He emphasized the potential of EPR in advancing the circular economy model, fostering enhanced accountability – both financial and organizational, and facilitating the closure of material and product value loops. This collective effort reflects a strategic approach towards fostering sustainable waste management practices and promoting environmental stewardship across the production and consumption lifecycle.
