But the recent push by the National Environment Management Authority (Nema) for mandatory biodegradable bin liners for organic waste feels like putting a fancy Band-Aid on a gaping wound. In recommending the shift to biodegradable garbage bags, there is a need for Nema to recognise the glaring gaps and weaknesses in Kenya's waste ecosystem. Granted, the Sustainable Waste Management Act 2022 has various provisions that are yet to be implemented, including enforcement on the closure of illegal dumpsites or landfills. Worryingly, Nema has not made public what standards would be used to determine what would constitute biodegradable garbage bags. Biodegradable materials should be broken down by microbial action, chewed up, and turned into natural byproducts like biomass and methane.

Source: The North Africa Journal May 14, 2024 12:44 UTC