Kenya plastic producers and users are addressing plastic pollution through the #LetsBeClear Innovation Challenge, led by the Kenya Plastics Pact (KPP) and WWF Kenya. The challenge aims to increase the recyclability of plastic packaging by transitioning colored plastic to clear PET and eliminating problematic additives from HDPE bottles and jars. This aligns with the Kenya Plastics Pact Roadmap’s goal of achieving 100% reusable and recyclable plastic packaging by 2030.
“The commitments made by these companies demonstrate their dedication to sustainability,” said Alex Kubasu, Program Manager of the Circular Economy Initiative at WWF-Kenya. “Switching to clear PET and eliminating unnecessary additives will significantly improve recyclability.”
Bidco Africa, a participating company eliminated the security cap seal from their Planet Aqua Water, removing 1MT of unnecessary plastic from the value chain. Highlighted its efforts, Tushar Mehta, Chief Value Stream Leader at Bidco Africa said, “We appreciate the continued guidance from KPP and WWF in making packaging more sustainable”.
Bio Foods, another participant, Bio Foods also emphasized the importance of the challenge in achieving their sustainability goals.
The initiative is expected to boost Kenya’s recycling rate, currently at around 10%. Henry Munyao from WWF-Kenya highlighted the importance of starting at the production stage to improve recycling efficiency, encouraging businesses to adopt sustainable packaging practices.
Collaboration between producers, users, and recyclers is key to creating a circular economy. Takataka Solutions, a recycling company, emphasized the need for recyclable materials to reach them.
The #LetsBeClear Challenge marks a significant step towards a more sustainable future for plastic packaging in Kenya, demonstrating the impact of collaboration in creating a circular economy that benefits both businesses and the environment.