Malawi Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) is dismissing assertions that it was unprepared for the enforcement of the thin plastics ban, which came into effect in February this year.
According to MEPA’s Environment, Information and Education Manager, Aubren Chirwa, the authority had already put in place measures to ensure a smooth implementation of the ban.
His remarks come in response to concerns from stakeholders who allege that MEPA’s lack of preparedness has made the ban ineffective.
Despite the ban, markets across the country remain flooded with single-use plastic bags.
Stakeholders argue that MEPA failed to introduce alternative packaging options before implementing the ban. One such organisation, XYZ DOSGO Green Initiative, which promotes eco-friendly alternatives, has raised concerns.
Programmes Coordinator at XYZ DOSGO Green Initiative, Aubrey Julius Taulo, said the government should have put in place strategies that will eliminate thin plastics after the ban.
Taulo said, for example, MEPA should have ruled that all public places like stadiums, thin plastics are not allowed which would make vendors find different alternatives beforehand.
But Chirwa said the authority had already put in place strategies to ensure effective enforcement.
He said the first step is to raise public awareness about the dangers of thin plastics on health and the environment before taking stronger action against non-compliant producers.
Chirwa reiterated MEPA’s commitment to enforcing the ban, stressing that the authority has taken necessary steps to ensure its success.
Malawi officially banned thin plastics of less than 60 microns in February this year.
MEPA says a mindset change is needed for citizens and businesses to embrace alternative options.
By Margaret Mapando
