Breaking the Plastic Gridlock: Uganda’s Urgent Call to Tackle Pollution Head-On

Plastic pollution is a widespread problem in Uganda that has become a major environmental problem, poisoning soils, and threatening wildlife. 

Kampala, which happens to be the capital city, is full of mountains of wasted plastic litter. The widespread use of single-use plastics combined with a poor waste management system has resulted in an increase in uncollected plastic garbage. 

Uganda’s natural heritage and future sustainability are at risk due to this urgent     issue, which also affects tourist and agricultural output, and poses a threat to the country’s health and biodiversity.

According to the National Environment Management Authority, Uganda has produced over 12,330 metric tons of PET plastics since 2018. In Kampala Metropolitan Area, 135,804 tons of plastic waste are generated per year.

Uganda faces significant environmental and health risks from widespread plastic pollution, affecting wildlife, soils, and water systems.

Of this, 42% is uncollected, 15% collected through the value chain approach and 43% collected by the service providers. About 21,728 tons of plastics is burned and 47,457 tons is landfilled/dumped, 27,160 tons is retained on land and 13,580 tons finds its way into water systems. 

It is important for the government, stakeholders in plastic companies, and individuals in the community to collectively address plastic pollution.

While government intervention is crucial for implementing policies and regulations, plastic companies must innovate sustainable alternatives.

Additionally, individual responsibility plays a key role in reducing plastic waste through proper disposal and conscious consumption habits.  By working together, we can protect Uganda’s environment and ensure a cleaner, healthier future for all.

The writer is a communications student at Uganda Christian University.