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    Commercial distribution of thin plastics remains banned

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    THE manufacture for use within Zimbabwe, commercial distribution, or importation
    of plastic packaging with a wall thickness of less than 30 microns remains banned.

    The ban follows the promulgation of Statutory Instrument 98 of 2010 (Plastic
    Packaging and Plastic Bottles Regulations). Despite, the existence of these
    regulations the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has noted with concern
    the recurrence of thin plastics particularly among informal traders, vendors and
    some retail outlets.

    The continued use of thin plastics is a threat to our environment because they are
    non – degradable and therefore can persist in the environment for so long. Thin
    plastics break down into tiny toxic particles that contaminate the soil and waterways
    and enter the food chain where animals can accidentally ingest them. Human beings
    also can be affected when drinking water from the contaminated waterways.

    Thin plastics are not reusable, they easily break down and end up becoming an
    eyesore along streets and open spaces. Manufacturers of plastic packaging, retailers

    and wholesalers should put in place strategies to stop the commercial distribution of
    thin plastics in line with Statutory Instrument 98 of 2010.

    As plastics never completely disintegrate, they can block the drains and hamper the
    smooth flow of water along storm drains and bridges. This has been found to cause
    flooding in extreme rainy seasons. They do so by clumping with other waste material
    and blocking the normal flow of water. Additionally, they block water, making it a
    breeding ground for germs, bacteria, and mosquitoes, creating significant health risk
    to the people living in the area.

    Using plastic carrier bags, like many of our habits, stemmed from convenience. It is
    now a culture we should collectively address starting at household and institutional
    levels. However, as our use of plastic bags has grown, the environmental impacts
    that come along have ballooned. Continuing to raise awareness of the environmental
    challenges that single-use plastics pose and available alternatives will help to reduce
    our dependence on this product.

    Highlighting the benefits of efforts like use of a shopping bag and illustrating the
    ease and convenience of bringing your own bag will help further combat this
    growing ecological problem. 

    Plastics have integrated themselves flawlessly into our lives with the notion of
    increased convenience. However, these seemingly forgettable and insignificant

    products collectively have a disastrous impact, as we have seen. Again, globally we
    consume over one trillion plastic bags each year – a worrisome number that calls for
    collective mindset shift and action to curb plastic pollution. As we seek to reduce
    waste in our lives and live a more sustainable lifestyle, we must be conscious of
    products like the plastics. 

    These environmental tips are brought to you by the Environmental Management
    Agency, Mashonaland West Province. For further information visit our Offices in all
    the Districts of the province. You can also contact us on 08080028, like us on
    Facebook page Environmental Management Agency or visit our website
    www.ema.co.zw. We are ready to listen.

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