The Kenya Extended Producer Responsibility Organization (KEPRO) has been launched by manufacturers to address post-consumer waste.
Launched by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers, KEPRO will promote collaboration, seek a commitment by waste value chain players and support the achievement of a circular economy.
Chris Kiptoo, principal secretary, Ministry of Environment and Forestry said the establishment of KEPRO as timely since it has come at a time when the government is gearing up to implement the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations.
“Kenya is among many countries that are facing challenges in both capability and capacity to recycle the high volume of waste generated. As such, we can no longer ignore the effects of irresponsible waste management. It is only through collaboration between all players in the value chain that we shall make strides towards sustainability and circular economy,” said Dr Kiptoo.
Priyen Tanna, chairperson, KEPRO said his organization will play a key role in spearheading the realization of a circular economy in the country through recycling waste generated from industries.
The launch of the KEPRO is in line with commitments made in the Kenya Plastic Action Plan, which seeks to enable a circular economy for the environmentally sustainable use and recycling of plastics in Kenya.
It follows last year’s launch of a Strategic Business Plan for the establishment of a Plastic Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) in the country.
The Business Plan set out the direction of KAM’s priorities in the waste value chain and key action in effecting the steps towards a clean Kenya.
