Africa’s Plastic Crisis: An Urgent Call for Action

Every 60 seconds, enough plastic waste is either dumped or burned in sub-Saharan Africa to cover an entire football pitch. Charitable organization Tearfund warns that if the current trend persists, the region could generate a staggering 116 million tonnes of plastic waste per year by 2060. This would be a sixfold increase from the 18 million tonnes recorded in 2019.

The surge in plastic waste is driven primarily by the demand for consumer goods, such as vehicles, which is rising in tandem with income and population growth. It’s particularly concerning in sub-Saharan Africa, where a youthful demographic, with 70% under 30 years old, is driving consumption patterns.

Globally, plastic use is expected to nearly triple by 2060, but sub-Saharan Africa stands out due to a lack of infrastructure to manage this impending wave of plastic. This urgent matter is set to be addressed in Nairobi, Kenya, where a UN treaty is being negotiated to combat plastic Pollution.

Tearfund’s senior economist, Rich Gower, stresses that the upcoming treaty holds the potential to mitigate the plastics crisis significantly. He emphasizes the importance of reducing plastic production and supporting waste pickers, who are responsible for recycling 60% of the world’s plastic.

In the absence of international regulations, the burden of plastic Pollution falls disproportionately on developing countries and informal waste workers. Dr. Tiwonge Mzumara-Gawa, a Malawian waste campaigner, highlights the daily health hazards faced by Africans due to plastic Pollution.

The situation is vividly illustrated by the Dandora landfill in Kenya, where heaps of plastic waste provide a haven for disease-carrying pests. Ahead of the treaty negotiations, waste pickers like John Chweya from Kenya are advocating for justice, healthcare, fair income, and improved working conditions.

As the world’s representatives convene in Nairobi, the call for decisive action against the mounting crisis of plastic waste has never been more urgent. With Africa at a pivotal point, the upcoming treaty could be a beacon of hope, setting a precedent for a cleaner, healthier environment.

Solution Not Pollution Sweatshirt by Tiny Rescue: Climate Collection

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