Kenya Bans Single-Use Plastics in Protected Areas

The government’s ban on single-use plastics in protected areas across the country has taken effect.

The prohibition, which was announced a year ago, took effect on Friday as Kenya joined the rest of the world in marking the World Environment Day.

The ban is aimed at reducing the amount of unsustainably disposed plastics, and comes three years after Kenya implemented one of the strictest bans on plastic bags in the world.

“This ban is yet another first in addressing the plastic pollution catastrophe facing Kenya and the world, and we hope that it catalyzes similar policies and actions from the East African Community,” Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala said in a statement on Friday.

The implementation of the ban means it is now illegal to carry single-use plastics such as water bottles, straws, cutlery, plates, cups, and cotton buds to Kenya’s national parks, beaches, forests, and conservation areas, among other protected areas. 

“By banning single-use plastics in national parks and protected areas, Kenya continues to demonstrate its commitment to addressing the global scourge of plastic pollution,” United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) said in a statement.

The ban offers an opportunity to use alternatives such as wooden, metallic, or paper products and local materials including coconut husks and bamboo, the government said.