Transition to biodegradable bags for organic waste starts today

The National Environment Management Authority (Nema) has announced the enforcement of a mandate requiring the use of 100% biodegradable garbage bags for organic waste collection.

This initiative, which aims to improve waste management practices nationwide, takes effect today following the directive issued on April 8, 2024.

NEMA had given a 90-day window from the date of the notice for full compliance with the new regulations.

The period allowed all public and private entities, including County Governments and licensed waste service providers, to transition to the use of biodegradable bags.

The Authority had directed all garbage to be carried in biodegradable garbage bags.

It also directed all county governments and private waste service providers licensed by Nema to provide their clients with 100% biodegradable bags.

“All organic waste generated by households, private sector and public sector institutions, private and public functions and events; shall strictly be segregated and placed in 100% biodegradable garbage bags/bin liners only,” Nema said.

The directive is in line with Section 12 of the Sustainable Waste Management Act, 2022.

The section requires that; (1) All public and private sector entities segregate non-hazardous waste into organic and non-organic fractions, (2) The segregated waste be placed in properly labelled and colour coded receptacles, bins, containers and bags. (3) All waste service providers to collect, handle and transport segregated waste.

The enforcement marks a shift from the use of conventional plastic bags, which were banned in 2017 under Gazette notice Nos. 2334 & 2356.