NEMA launches crackdown on factories producing plastic bags
Manufacturers caught flouting the law now face fines of up to Sh4 million or imprisonment for up to two years.
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has launched a nationwide operation targeting factories still producing prohibited polythene bags.
In a statement, the Authority said the move follows reports of some companies secretly continuing production, despite a ban.
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Manufacturers caught flouting the law now face fines of up to Sh4 million or imprisonment for up to two years.
“Inspectors from Nema have carried out operations in several facilities suspected of manufacturing banned polythene bags. NEMA will continue surveillance to eradicate illegal production and ensure that offenders are prosecuted,” the agency said.
The Authority noted that the latest crackdown comes after it received information that some firms have been operating discreetly in the production of the outlawed bags.
Members of the public have now been urged to play a role in curbing the vice by reporting anyone involved in the production or distribution of banned plastic bags.
Reports can be made via phone on 0741 101 100 or 0786 101 100, or by email at [email protected].
The government outlawed the use of polythene bags in 2017, citing serious environmental and health risks such as clogged drainage systems, livestock deaths from ingesting plastics and the release of toxic chemicals when the bags are burned.
The ban, effected under the Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act, prescribes strict penalties for offenders. Anyone found in possession or using the banned bags faces fines ranging between Sh2 million and Sh4 million, imprisonment for one to two years, or both.
Following the ban, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) was tasked with conducting crackdowns, arrests, and prosecutions of individuals and businesses involved in the manufacturing, selling, importing, or use of illegal plastic bags. The move resulted in the closure of approximately 176 companies that had been engaged in polythene bag production.
“It is notified to the public that the CS Environment and Natural Resources have, with effect from six months from the date of this notice, banned the use, manufacture, and importation of plastic bags for commercial and household packaging,” the Authority said.
The announcement came months after NEMA dismissed claims that it intended to impose a Sh100 million fine on those involved in the manufacture, importation, sale or use of plastic carrier bags.
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