How Kenyan youth are minting cash from dumpsites

Kenya is taking significant strides towards achieving sustainable waste management practices that not only benefit the environment but also stimulate economic growth. A new law has been passed in the country, making it mandatory for extended producer responsibility to recover all their products. This move is aimed at reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, ushering in a new era in the waste management industry. Gathoni Methu, Head of Partnerships at Pakpro, sheds light on the importance of addressing climate change through waste diversion and recycling. Methu emphasizes the need for segregation at source projects and recycling initiatives to minimize waste in landfills and curb the emission of greenhouse gases. The conversation with CNBC Africa delves deeper into the challenges that Kenya faces in waste management and the risks of neglecting proper waste disposal. Methu highlights the severe environmental damage caused by pollution, affecting waterways, soil, and air quality. She stresses the urgency of adopting sustainable waste management practices to mitigate climate change and preserve biodiversity. From an economic standpoint, Methu identifies the potential for green job creation through extended producer responsibility. By engaging various stakeholders in the waste value chain, such as waste collectors, aggregators, and recycling companies, Kenya aims to boost its economy and create opportunities for local communities. The significance of green jobs in driving economic growth is underscored, especially in a continent grappling with high unemployment rates. Methu explains how improved waste management processes can elevate the income of waste entrepreneurs and provide employment in sorting, transportation, and recovery facilities. The interview also delves into the broader impact of green jobs on Kenya's GDP, envisioning a future where waste management contributes significantly to the country's economic output. Methu emphasizes the positive ripple effect of green job creation, noting how individuals have been able to secure better livelihoods and educational opportunities for their families. As Kenya leads the way in advocating for extended producer responsibility, Methu calls on other African nations to follow suit and embrace sustainable waste management practices. The Sustainable Waste Management Act of 2022 serves as a beacon for African countries to prioritize environmental conservation and combat climate change collectively. Methu extends an invitation to neighboring nations to join hands in nurturing cleaner and greener economies, emphasizing the importance of shared responsibility in achieving environmental sustainability. By scaling up these initiatives across Africa, countries can work together towards a common goal of reducing pollution, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. The call to action resonates with a vision of unity and collaboration in driving positive change for the continent's environmental landscape.