Manufacturers from the Hindu community in Nakuru dealing with plastics have raised their concerns concerning some policies on the ban of Plastic bags.
Speaking in Nakuru on Thursday during a meeting with officials from National Environment Management Authority-NEMA, the manufacturers called on the Authority to come up clear on take back law concerning the carrier bags.
“Take for example the tosti they bake bread. What they are expecting is that once packaged and the consumer takes the bread and the paper is found somewhere else, the manufacturer will be fined. That should be looked into” he said.
Shailesh Sheth who is the chair Hindu Union said even thought they embrace the ban for environmental cleanliness, there was still need for the authority to consider the fine being imposed on those who contravene the law.
According to him, the fine of 4 million shillings was too high on the side of manufacturers as it can negatively affect their businesses.
“I think we should have stakeholders’ forum so that they can listen to all views” he said.
However, environmental officer from NEMA Nakuru County Mrs. Daisy Wambui Maina speaking at the same forum said the authority has explained and clarified about the exemptions.
She added that clearance must be sought from NEMA for primary packaging of goods such as milk and cookies.
“Clearance must be sought from NEMA for primary packaging of goods such as milk and cookies” she said.
The meeting was attended by various manufacturers in Nakuru majority from the Hindu community.
It should be noted that the ban on plastic carrier bags became operational in Kenya on 28th August.