By Muita Njambi
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has proposed a comprehensive new system for managing waste, aimed at enhancing the proper disposal and recycling of materials.
This innovative initiative involves the introduction of a color-coded system for waste bins, designed to streamline the segregation process and ensure that waste is appropriately categorized and disposed off.
In a public notice NEMA has proposed ways in which different types of waste will be designated specific colors: green for organic waste, blue for recyclable waste, and black for general waste.
“To ensure all public and private sector entities segregate the non-hazardous waste into organic and inorganic fractions, NEMA has come up with a proposed National Color coding system,” read the notice.
The choice of these colors is intentional and symbolic, with green representing nature and biodegradability, blue standing for sustainability and recyclability, and black indicating general waste that does not fall into the other categories.
Organic waste, which includes food scraps and yard waste, will be disposed of in green bins. Recyclable waste, such as plastics, paper, and glass, will go into blue bins.
All other types of waste, which are classified as general waste, will be placed in black bins. This clear and straightforward system is expected to make it easier for individuals and organizations to correctly separate their waste, thereby reducing the amount of material that ends up in landfills and enhancing recycling efforts.
The implementation of this color-coded system is mandatory for both public and private entities, ensuring that non-hazardous waste is systematically divided into organic and non-organic categories.
Proper waste segregation is a crucial step towards minimizing environmental impact, promoting recycling, and fostering a sustainable future.
However NEMA has encouraged public to share their views on this proposal via email info@nema.go.ke or through their social media platforms before the deadline of August 16, 2024.