Fredrick Moyo
Retailers have been asked to find alternatives to plastic career bags by December 2022 as the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) is contemplating outlawing its use saying it is not environmental friendly.
In a letter dated November 12 2021, directed to one P Rambanepasi of the Retailers Association of Zimbabwe, EMA director for environmental management services Steady Kangata said there is need to lessen plastic usage that had become a menace in the country and would be phased out by the end of 2022.
“Globally, plastic waste has become a menace, hence the need to reduce the use of plastics. The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) is therefore taking steps towards the phase-out of plastic carrier bags.
“We are encouraging your affiliate members to consider alternative non-plastic carrier bags which are environmentally friendly. Plastic carrier bags are set to be phased out by the end of December 2022.
“We appreciate efforts by some of your members who have already started promoting (the use) of alternative bags. A green economy is the way to go and your co-operation in this regard is greatly appreciated,” reads the letter.
Speaking to TellZim News Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers President (CZR) Denford Mutashu said CZR applauds the decision by EMA to suspend plastics and soon they will engage manufacturers and suppliers to admit to the transition.
“CZR fully embraces EMA’s recent communique regarding gradual phasing out of non-biodegradable carrier bags by December 2022. CZR is working with sector players to begin the implementation in earnest.
“We will soon engage packaging manufacturers and suppliers to initiate the transition while working with the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe in educating consumers of the dangers to the environment of continued use of non-biodegradable plastics,” said Mutashu.
A few years ago kaylites which were used by majority of food outlets were banned and many outlets like Chicken Inn resorted to khaki paper boxes.
