Free packaging in supermarkets may soon come at a price for Nairobians who have always enjoyed it at no pay.
This is after Umoja 1 MCA Njoroge Maina sponsored a Bill seeking to block retailers from providing shoppers with free plastic bags for carrying goods.
“No retailer shall make available to consumers any plastic bags free of charge,” the Bill states in part.
The proposed law seeks to combat pollution by discouraging buyers from using plastic bags and adopt an alternative means of carrying goods.
“The main object of this Bill is to outline legislative measures for controlling the manufacture, usage, and disposal of the plastic carry bag, so as to conserve, restore and maintain a clean environment and control pollution within the precincts of Nairobi City County,” Maina said.
If passed, the law will also apply to large stores, small corner shops, and grocery stores.
The Bill also carry with it a penalty for defaulters, if caught contravening one could face a year in jail, Sh3 million fine or both.