Senator Mbugua Demands Action on Rampant Use of Banned Single-Use Plastics
These regulations are supposed to hold manufacturers accountable for the waste they create, and it’s vital to see how they are being enforced.
Nominated Senator George Mbugua. Photo/Parliament of Kenya.
By Robert Assad
Nominated Senator George Mbugua recently raised an important issue in the Senate that affects everyone: the ongoing presence of banned single-use plastics in our everyday lives.
He is calling for urgent clarity from government agencies and manufacturers about why these plastics are still so prevalent, particularly in products we consume.
During a Senate session on Tuesday, Mbugua pressed the Standing Committee on Trade, Industrialization, and Tourism for an update on the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, which were set up under the Sustainable Waste Management Act.
These regulations are supposed to hold manufacturers accountable for the waste they create, and it’s vital to see how they are being enforced.
Mbugua didn’t hold back, questioning why single-use plastics—officially banned—can still be found almost everywhere. He raised the concern of whether manufacturers are fulfilling their legal obligations under the EPR framework that was established.
“We need a comprehensive list of compliant and non-compliant manufacturers,” he stated, emphasizing that Kenyans deserve transparency about who is following the law and who is not.
He also called attention to the funds collected through levies and penalties imposed on manufacturers who are not adhering to these rules.
Mbugua wants to know where this money is going and how it’s being used, as it is intended to help promote environmental sustainability.
“The public has a right to know who benefits from these funds,” he stressed.
Adding to the urgency of the issue, Mbugua inquired why, despite strict regulations, banned plastics are still found in stores and homes.
“If we have regulations in place, why are we still seeing plastic wrappers and packaging?” he questioned, highlighting the disconnect between the laws and reality.
To tackle the issue of plastic pollution effectively, Mbugua is advocating for public awareness campaigns at the county level. He believes many people are still unaware of the EPR regulations and the essential roles they play in reducing waste.
“Education is key,” he said, reminding us that both producers and consumers have responsibilities.
Senator Mbugua’s remarks reflect a growing concern among lawmakers about the future of Kenya’s environment.
With plastic waste impacting our ecosystems and urban areas, the effectiveness of current regulations is in question. Now, it’s up to the Senate Committee to provide the answers that the public—and our planet—so desperately need., the effectiveness of current regulations is in question.
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