Launched on June 5th, 2021, the “Sustainable Management of Single-Use Plastics” project aims at fighting plastic pollution in Rwanda. The Private Sector Federation (PSF) will mobilise 690.6 million Rwandan francs (about 560,400 euros) for this five-year project, according to the partnership signed with the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (Rema).
Through the Sustainable Management of Single-Use Plastics project, Rema hopes to eliminate single-use plastics from the Rwandan landscape. In 2019, the country enacted Law 17/2019 on the prohibition of the manufacture, import, use and sale of plastic carrier bags and single-use plastic items. Companies have until September 2021 to stop supplying or selling single-use plastic in the country, or face penalties.
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Recalcitrant companies will face a fine of 5 million Rwandan francs (about €4,900). The text also provides for a fine for individuals of 50,000 Rwandan francs (about 40.9 euros).
Environmental preservation
The PSF funding will improve the collection, processing and recycling of single-use plastics in Rwanda. Rema will provide technical support for the project and raise awareness about single-use plastic management. According to the government agency headed by Faustin Munyazikwiye, the “Sustainable Management of Single-Use Plastics” project will also contribute to the preservation of the environment, as well as reduce the effects of climate change.
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The East African country wants to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 38% by 2030. This is what Rwandan President Paul Kagame said at the 2020 Climate Ambition Summit.
Inès Magoum