Greenpeace Africa applauds Kenya’s commitment to combat plastic pollution

KENYA – In a step towards addressing the global plastic waste crisis, Kenya has officially joined the High Ambition Coalition (HAC), a group of 67 nations committed to eliminating plastic pollution through a comprehensive and circular approach.

This move comes at a critical moment as negotiations intensify for a global plastics treaty, which would establish an internationally binding agreement to tackle plastic waste at every stage of its lifecycle.

Kenya’s decision to join the coalition aligns with global efforts to push for decisive action during the upcoming fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5), scheduled for November 2024 in Busan, South Korea.

The coalition advocates for urgent and effective measures to significantly reduce plastic production and pollution on a global scale.

Greenpeace Africa has lauded this decision, emphasizing its importance in the fight against plastic waste.

Gerance Mutwol, Plastic Campaigner at Greenpeace Africa, highlighted the need for Kenya to fully endorse the Bridge to Busan Declaration, a document that outlines the necessary commitments for a successful treaty outcome.

“As Kenya demonstrates commitment and political goodwill towards a robust treaty, we urge the government to sign the Bridge to Busan Declaration,” said Mutwol.

“Kenya should champion a treaty that aims to reduce plastic production by at least 75% by 2040, using 2019 levels as a baseline. This is essential to keep global temperatures below 1.5°C and protect our health, rights, communities, and the planet.”

Mutwol further emphasized the need for Kenya to eradicate plastic pollution throughout its lifecycle.

This includes eliminating single-use plastics, especially problematic items like sachets, and transitioning towards a low-carbon, zero-waste, toxic-free, and reuse-oriented economy.

Kenya has long been at the forefront of the fight against plastic waste in Africa, alongside countries like Rwanda.

Both nations have implemented strong policies to curb single-use plastics and have influenced the continent’s environmental agenda.

As part of the High Ambition Coalition, Kenya is expected to strengthen its efforts and inspire other nations to take bold action.

Greenpeace Africa stressed that the Global Plastics Treaty presents a rare and timely opportunity to address the mounting plastic pollution crisis, urging governments around the world to recognize its importance in protecting the environment and human health.

With the INC-5 negotiations approaching, Kenya’s commitment to the coalition signals its readiness to push for an ambitious, binding treaty to combat plastic pollution and ensure a more sustainable future for all.

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