On this year’s World Environment Day, Mt. Kenya Network Forum joined the global community in observing the theme #BeatPlasticPollution, with a renewed call for urgent, coordinated, and science-driven action to tackle plastic pollution across its full lifecycle.
As an organization committed to environmental conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable development in the Mt. Kenya and surrounding regions, we recognize the growing urgency to address plastic pollution not only as a waste management issue but also as a health, climate, and social justice concern.
Pressing Challenges and Policy Imperatives
Plastic production and consumption in Kenya remain at unsustainable levels, despite progressive policies such as the ban on plastic bags. According to the CSO Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, of which we are a part, enforcement gaps, industry lobbying, and underfunded regulatory agencies continue to undermine progress.
A key concern highlighted in this year’s official press release is the presence of toxic chemical additives in plastic consumer products, many of which affect vulnerable populations, especially women, children, and informal waste pickers. These additives have been linked to serious health effects, including cancer and reproductive disorders.
The coalition made several policy recommendations, including:
- Full enforcement and expansion of plastic bans
- Mandatory restrictions on toxic additives
- Regulation of plastic imports and border control measures
- Formal recognition and integration of waste pickers in Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems
- Investment in sustainable alternatives and green innovation
- Active engagement in a binding Global Plastics Treaty
As the Mt. Kenya Network Forum, we strongly support these recommendations and advocate for a life-cycle approach to plastic governance that emphasizes prevention, accountability, and community engagement.
Engaging in Dialogue: The EU–CSO Session on Green Trade
This year’s World Environment Day also coincided with the EU–CSO Dialogue on Green Trade, hosted under the META Inclusive Structured Dialogues. The session provided a valuable platform to discuss strategies for inclusive, sustainable, and just trade policies, especially within the context of climate change, resource efficiency, and community resilience.
Mt. Kenya Network Forum welcomed this timely dialogue, recognizing the intersection between trade, environment, and equity. We reaffirm our position that green trade must align with environmental integrity, uphold human rights, and address structural inequalities, particularly those affecting women, youth, and marginalized rural populations.
Our Commitment Going Forward
In line with our mission, Mt. Kenya Network Forum will continue to:
- Raise awareness and mobilize communities around environmental issues
- Advocate for evidence-based policies on plastic pollution and green growth
- Support local innovations and circular economy solutions
- Build partnerships for greater civic engagement in environmental governance
- Participate in national and regional platforms promoting sustainable trade and development
Conclusion
World Environment Day 2025 marks a critical opportunity to reflect on Kenya’s progress and renew commitment to a cleaner, healthier, and more just future. We believe that by working collaboratively—across sectors, regions, and disciplines—we can achieve tangible results in ending plastic pollution and promoting green, inclusive trade.
We extend our appreciation to our partners, government stakeholders, FEMNET, and fellow CSOs for their leadership and continued engagement.
Environmental protection is not optional—it is essential.
Together, let us move from policy to implementation, from dialogue to action.