There is a famous adage that says numbers don’t lie, and when it comes to Kenya’s waste statistics, the truth is both undeniable and alarming.
Waste mismanagement in our country is no longer a minor issue. It has become a growing environmental and public health crisis that demands urgent action.
Every day, our non-environmentally friendly choices lead to unforgiving consequences, poisoning lives on land and water.
According to the National Environment Management Authority (Nema), Kenya generates an estimated 22,000 metric tonnes of waste every day, with Nairobi accounting for 2,400 metric tonnes.
The 2024 National Waste Audit Report paints an even starker picture—our urban centres produce enough packaging waste every hour to fill 10 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Let that sink in.
For those of us committed to building a greener, healthier future, these statistics are more than mere numbers. They are a rallying cry. A call to action to move beyond lip service and embrace real solutions, starting with the adoption of eco-friendly packaging.
While Kenya has demonstrated progress in waste management, notably with the 2017 ban on single-use plastics, the surge in food deliveries, e-commerce, and consumer-packaged goods has driven a corresponding increase in packaging demand.
This surge has, unfortunately, led to a greater reliance on single-use plastics and multi-layer wrappers, many of which are not effectively recycled. This is where eco-friendly packaging can be a game-changer.
The UNEP Impact Report of 2021 revealed that Kenya’s plastics ban resulted in an 80 percent reduction in pollution within protected areas.
Data from Nielsen Kenya 2024 shows that brands using sustainable packaging are seeing over 20 percent higher consumer preference compared to those that do not.
This suggests that a widespread transition to biodegradable materials in packaging could substantially reduce waste volumes and alleviate pollution in our ecosystems.
Consider the potential of bamboo, sugar cane fibre, or banana leaves as sustainable substitutes for plastics.
Countries like Rwanda and South Africa are leading the way, using banana leaves for packaging food products. That’s not to say innovation in plastics should be disregarded.
Some manufacturers are developing hybrid materials that minimise environmental harm.
We stand at a crossroads. Choosing eco-friendly packaging is no longer a trendy option, it’s a critical decision that will shape the future of our cities, our health, and our economy.
If we choose wisely, future generations will look back and thank us for taking the bold step toward a cleaner, more sustainable Kenya.
However, greater awareness, education, and government support are needed to scale adoption.
Many companies are already undertaking the development of some of these eco-friendly materials, and it is high time to enhance awareness, conduct demos, and tell the world that it is possible.
That’s why events like the Propak East Africa Exhibition and Conference, taking place from May 20th to 22nd at the Sarit Centre in Nairobi, are timely. With over 200 exhibitors from across the globe showcasing cutting-edge sustainable packaging solutions, this platform offers a crucial opportunity to raise awareness about the pivotal role of eco-friendly packaging in addressing waste management challenges.
The insights shared by manufacturers, producers, and regulatory bodies at such gatherings can significantly advance the dialogue on creating cleaner environments while fostering economic growth.
Beyond environmental impact, the adoption of eco-friendly packaging has clear economic benefits. For example, Nairobi County spends over Sh1.5 billion annually on waste management. Reducing waste at the source could redirect a significant portion of that budget to more pressing development needs.
And that’s not even accounting for the healthcare costs linked to pollution-related illnesses.
The 2022 World Packaging Organisation's Packaging Trends Report underscores the growing importance of sustainability, identifying biodegradable, recyclable, and edible packaging as key areas for future focus.
Kenya, with its innovative young minds, growing consumer awareness, and robust policy frameworks, is well-positioned to lead this shift in the region. The critical factor now is consistent action.
The writer is the Managing Director, Montgomery Group East Africa
