Charles Sunkuli (c) alongside environment CS Judy Wakhungu during the launch of ethanol stoves (Photo/ Nation)
The move by National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) to draft a gazette notice that would see plastic bottles ban effected by April 30 has not gone well with the Environment Ministry.
The ministry has now overruled the decision to by the environmental watchdog saying that their are no immediate plans to ban plastic bottles.
Environment Principal Secretary Charles Sunkuli said that plastic bottle manufacturers would simply be encouraged to adopt recycling methods as opposed to imminent ban issued by NEMA.
“The Government has no plans whatsoever to ban the manufacture and use of plastic bottles. What we intend to ban are plastic straws,”Mr Sunkuli said.
Mr Sunkuli was speaking during the launch of a program that would see Samsung distribute ethanol stoves to Kakuma Refugee camp.
The PS also denied claims made by Nema Managing Director Geoffrey Wahungu that scrupulous cartels were smuggling plastic bags into the country and selling them in black markets.
“We have not received any reports that some criminal business people are smuggling plastic bags into the country, but we are conducting our own surveillance. We will take action when we get a report,” said Sunkuli.
NEMA had Indicate that over 50 million plastic bottles are uses annually hence creating a monumental challenge.
This prompted NEMA to announce drafting of the new gazette notice to issue ban on plastic bottles.
“Be the first to know about hot news stories when they break. WhatsApp me your number and types of stories you would love to read on 0792066260 to start receiving news stories direct to your phone."