• In a statement on X, the organization announced that the new policy would take effect in 12 days.

The National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) has issued a reminder about the transition to using biodegradable bags for organic waste collection, which will take effect on July 8, 2024.

In a statement on X, the organization announced that the new policy would take effect in 12 days.

In a statement dated April 8, 2024, NEMA had stated that in 90 days, all organic waste generated by households, private sector and public sector institutions, religious institutions, private and public functions, and events shall strictly be segregated and placed in 100% biodegradable garbage bags/bin liners only.

NEMA stated that the waste shall be collected separately and transported to a designated Material Recovery Facility for further processing. The statement also directed that using conventional plastic bags/bin liners to collect organic waste shall cease immediately.

According to NEMA, all County Governments and private waste service providers licensed by NEMA are required to provide their clients with 100% biodegradable garbage bags or bin liners only.

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NEMA quoted Section 12 of the Sustainable Waste Management Act, 2022, which requires that:

I) All public and private sector entities segregate non-hazardous waste into organic and non-organic fractions.

II) The segregated waste is placed in properly labelled and colour-coded receptacles, bins, containers, and bags.

III) All waste providers to collect, handle, and transport segregated waste.