Parliament on Friday, December 13, 2024, deliberated a motion proposed by Kgoberego Nkawana, Member of Parliament for Selebi Phikwe East, calling for the government to ban the importation and use of all non-essential plastics. The motion highlights growing concerns over environmental contamination caused by the improper disposal of plastic waste.

In his submission, Nkawana emphasized the detrimental impact of non-essential plastics, also known as single-use plastics, which are typically discarded after one use. These include plastic shopping bags, straws, coffee cups, stirrers, beverage and water bottles, and most food packaging plastics.

Responding to the motion, the government acknowledged that plastic pollution poses a significant threat to the environment. The indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste harms wildlife, blocks waterways and drainage systems, and contributes to flooding. It also diminishes the aesthetic appeal of natural habitats and poses health risks as stagnant water in clogged drains becomes breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

However, the government cautioned against an outright ban, arguing that Botswana is not yet ready for such a drastic measure. Instead, it proposed a phased approach to allow for a smooth transition to alternative materials.

The government’s response drew attention to the ongoing development of the Global Plastic Treaty under the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) resolution 5/14. The treaty aims to tackle plastic pollution through a comprehensive approach that addresses the entire plastic life cycle, from production and design to environmentally sound waste management. Botswana is a party to this treaty, which is expected to be ratified in 2025.

According to the government, the treaty’s objectives align with Botswana’s National Waste Management Policy, which seeks to transition to a circular economy. This approach emphasizes reducing waste, reusing materials, and recycling resources to achieve sustainability.

The government’s response highlighted several key areas that will be addressed following the adoption of the Global Plastic Treaty:

1. Development of National Action Plans: Botswana will be required to create a national strategy to phase out problematic plastics and implement sustainable waste management systems.
2. Identification and Banning of Specific Plastics: This process will identify and prohibit the use of certain non-essential and single-use plastics, as well as microplastics that are intentionally added to products.
3. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Model: Producers and manufacturers will be made responsible for the entire life cycle of their products, including waste collection, recycling, and capacity building.
4. Just Transition for Workers in the Plastic Industry: The treaty will address the socio-economic implications of the transition for informal sector workers and those employed in the plastic production industry, ensuring their livelihoods are protected.

While the call to ban non-essential plastics has been met with support from environmental advocates, industry players and small-scale producers of plastic products have expressed concerns about the economic impact. The government’s phased approach, coupled with its commitment to “just transition” measures under the Global Plastic Treaty, aims to mitigate the adverse effects on these groups.

Parliament’s upcoming debate is expected to draw widespread attention from environmentalists, industry stakeholders, and the public. The decision on whether to endorse a full ban or support a gradual transition could shape Botswana’s environmental policy trajectory for years to come.