Sen. Mbugua seeks answers on proliferation of banned single-use plastics

Senate Planery
Tuesday, 27th May 2025

Nominated Senator George Mbugua has requested the Senate Standing Committee on Trade, Industrialization, and Tourism to clarify the current implementation status of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations by manufacturers in Kenya.

Speaking before Parliament on May 21, 2025, Mbugua cited Section 5(1) of the Sustainable Waste Management Act (Cap. 387C), which clearly spells out obligations manufacturers have under the 2024 EPR framework.

He called for a detailed update from the committee, specifically demanding "a comprehensive list of compliant and non-compliant manufacturers." Additionally, the senator sought information regarding the total levies collected and penalties issued to manufacturers failing EPR compliance, requesting transparency on how these collected funds are allocated and who benefits from them.

Mbugua further questioned why banned single-use plastics continue to dominate the market, particularly in consumer packaging, and demanded explanations for their ongoing presence despite regulatory prohibitions.

Finally, the Senator emphasized the need for effective public awareness campaigns, urging the committee to outline measures already implemented to educate the public about EPR obligations, highlighting the importance of targeted outreach at the county government level to enhance nationwide compliance.