Namibia eyes expansion of plastic ban
Namibia is considering widening its plastic ban to include more single-use items such as straws, cutlery, and non-recyclable packaging, as part of ongoing efforts to combat plastic pollution.This was revealed by Deputy Environmental Commissioner Dr Caroline Gaorus-Oas during the recent World Environment Day celebrations in Swakopmund under the theme "End Plastic Pollution."
Namibia has already banned plastic bags in national parks, and the environment ministry is now consulting stakeholders on extending this to other problematic plastics.
"Plastic clogs landfills, drains, and oceans, releasing toxic smoke when burned. It's one of the gravest threats to our planet," said Gaorus-Oas.
She noted that over 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced globally each year, with less than 10% recycled. Up to 23 million tonnes end up in water bodies annually.
Gaorus-Oas said plastic pollution also harms Namibia's image, especially with litter visible along roads and in communities. She called for urgent action and sustainable alternatives.
"We need to reduce the production and use of single-use plastics and set up strong monitoring, financing, and incentive systems to support change," she said.