Ministry of Environment moves to enforce biodegradable plastics
The Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MESTI) has directed that effective November 1, all plastics produced in the country should have oxobiodegradable additives to make them biodegradable.
A statement issued by the ministry and signed by its Public Relations Officer, Zakari Musah said the directive follows discussions and an agreement with stakeholders.
“It was also agreed that all flexible plastics below 20 microns produced in the country and imported shall not be allowed in the country form the 1st of November 2015.”
The Ministry said it will begin monitoring plastic manufacturing companies from November 1, 2015 to learn challenges of stakeholders and to ensure that this directive on oxobiodegradable additives and reduced micron levels in flexible plastics, are complied with by stakeholders
“The Ministry will endeavour to assist in the management of plastic waste with the aim of finding a lasting solution to the problem since its negative effects have no respect for any person, irrespective of age, colour and gender”
“The Ministry wishes to assure the general public that further discussions with stakeholders are ongoing to ensure that the directives are carried out to ensure a clean environment”, the statement said.
This directive comes after President John Mahama dropped a hint in July that government would be compelled to adopt a Ugandan approach towards plastics by banning them completely if plastic waste is not managed effectively.
By Emmanuel Odonkor