Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Malawi Voice
Published on 2024-03-06 20:00:48
Plastic pollution is a global environmental crisis that is not only causing harm to our planet but also significantly contributing to climate change. According to global experts, the production and use of plastic contribute approximately two billion tonnes of Carbon Dioxide equivalent (Co2e) to the atmosphere. This alarming statistic was discussed at the United Nations Environmental Assembly 6 (UNEA-6) conference held in Nairobi, Kenya from 29th February to 1st March 2024.
During the conference, a report titled ‘Global actions to stem climate change and end plastic pollution’ was shared and discussed by GRID-Arendal, a non-profit environmental communications center based in Norway. The report highlights the urgent need for countries to address the impact of plastics on climate change. Karen Landmark, the Managing Director for GRID-Arendal, emphasized that while plastics are often viewed as a pollution problem, their impact on climate change is equally concerning.
The report revealed that greenhouse gases are emitted throughout the entire life cycle of plastics, accounting for an estimated 3.8 to 4.5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. With plastic production expected to continue growing, the emissions from plastics will only worsen, accelerating climate change and exacerbating its impact. To effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the focus should be on minimizing plastic production.
Leva Rucevska, a senior expert on plastics and one of the authors of the report, emphasized the need for urgent action to address plastic pollution as a key component of climate action. Rucevska stressed the importance of linking plastics to the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste.
At the conference, UNEA-6 brought together environment ministers from 193 member countries to set priorities for the global environmental agenda. The focus was on addressing the interconnected issues of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste. Environmental Activist, Charles Bakolo, highlighted the urgent need for Malawi to improve its waste management infrastructure and policies to effectively tackle plastic pollution.
Despite efforts to collect waste, Bakolo noted that the rates are insufficient, leading to a significant amount of plastic ending up in the environment through various channels. He pointed out the lack of proper landfill facilities as a key factor exacerbating the problem, with waste often ending up in open dumpsites. Bakolo called for strategies to reduce plastic usage, increase recycling rates, and implement stricter regulations on plastic production and disposal. Public awareness was also highlighted as a crucial aspect to encourage responsible waste management practices and reduce the negative environmental impacts of plastics.
In conclusion, addressing the impact of plastics on climate change is essential for mitigating the effects of climate change and protecting our planet for future generations. Urgent action is needed at both the international and local levels to minimize plastic production, improve waste management practices, and raise awareness about the importance of responsible consumption and disposal of plastics.
Read the original article on Malawi Voice
