The Malawi Environment Protection Authority (Mepa) has intensified its crackdown on thin plastics, confiscating more than 70 tonnes of banned plastic papers, The Daily Times has learned.
Mepa Environment Information and Education Manager Aubren Chirwa said the authority would not sit on its laurels as it wraps up the first phase of its enforcement campaign.
“We are committed to sustaining the ban on thin plastics. This is vital for protecting our environment and public health,” Chirwa said.
Chirwa said cooperation with community members, businesses and government institutions was key to long-term success.
He, however, revealed that Mepa faced logistical challenges since it relies heavily on hired vehicles to reach different areas.
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Chirwa said, among other things, that the shortage of utility vehicles hampers the speed and reach of enforcement, slowing nationwide compliance monitoring.
He said Mepa was preparing to expand its campaign, with plans that include broader public awareness initiatives, closer collaboration with manufacturers to encourage eco-friendly alternatives, and strengthened monitoring systems.
Environmental experts have hailed the initiative, with Civil Society Network on Climate Change (Cisonecc) Executive Director Julius Ngoma noting that reducing thin plastics’ quantities could yield long-term economic benefits.
“Less plastic waste reduces drainage blockages, lowers flood risks and protects agriculture and local businesses,” Ngoma said.
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The ‘Mlanda Ma Plastiki Opyapyala’ [Ban the Thin Plastics] campaign combines enforcement with public education.
