In today’s world, plastics have become an omnipresent menace, infiltrating every aspect of our lives, from our streets and bodies to our food, soil, ecosystems, and waterways. This crisis, fueled by the profit-driven pursuits of major oil companies, spares no corner of the globe. Despite Africa being responsible for only 5% of global plastic production and 4% of consumption, the continent bears the disproportionate burden of plastic pollution through transboundary transfer of waste, a phenomenon aptly described as ‘waste colonialism.’
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While petrochemical corporations extol the virtues of plastics as cheap and convenient, the true costs remain largely invisible: biodiversity destruction, flooding, adverse impacts on human health, social injustice, and the exacerbation of the climate crisis. – Gerance Mutwol 2023
Plastics and Health in Africa
The improper disposal of plastic waste in African cities and villages threatens the fundamental right to health. Disturbing research from Stanford University and the Technical University of Mombasa reveals a connection between plastic waste and the spread of tropical diseases such as Malaria, chikungunya, and dengue fever. Plastic waste serves as breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes, amplifying health risks. The presence of microplastics deemed an emerging human health hazard, contributes to oxidative stress, DNA damage, organ dysfunction, and reproductive toxicity. Moreover, the common practice of burning plastic waste in some African regions releases harmful pollutants, worsening respiratory problems and contributing to air pollution-related diseases.
Plastics and the Environment
The visual evidence of plastic pollution is overwhelming, from the deepest parts of the ocean to the remotest stretches of land. Lions with plastic bottles and birds entangled in plastics vividly illustrate the ubiquitous nature of this crisis. Marine life, including sea turtles and dolphins, faces entanglement and ingestion, leading to starvation. Plastic pollution in rivers and lakes jeopardizes freshwater biodiversity, while terrestrial ecosystems suffer from littered landscapes, putting Africa’s overall biodiversity and health at severe risk.
Plastics and Economy in Africa
The economic ramifications of plastic pollution in Africa are profound. The vital tourism industry, which contributes up to 4.4% of Africa’s GDP, is adversely affected by littered beaches, deterring visitors. In Senegal, picturesque sites are marred by thousands of discarded plastic bags and bottles, impacting both marine life and tourism. Agriculture, a cornerstone of Africa’s economy, faces challenges as plastic pollution harms soil fertility and water quality, exacerbating food insecurity and causing job losses. The costs associated with cleaning up plastic pollution strain already limited resources.
The Path Forward: A Global Plastics Treaty
In response to these pressing issues, a pivotal moment is on the horizon—the 3rd session of negotiations (INC3) to develop a global legally binding treaty on plastic pollution. Set to take place in Nairobi, Kenya, from November 13th to 19th, 2023, this marks an unprecedented opportunity to bid farewell to the age of plastic through a tangible treaty draft, the “Zero draft.”
A robust Global Plastics Treaty should encompass key provisions to:
- Cut total plastic production by at least 75% by 2040, aligning with climate goals and safeguarding health, rights, and communities.
- Address the entire lifecycle of plastics, from extraction to disposal.
- Keep oil and gas used in plastic production in the ground, advocating for a switch to refill and reuse systems to reduce single-use plastic production.
- Hold countries accountable for managing their own waste, putting an end to waste colonialism.
- Ensure a just transition for workers and prioritize the health of the most affected communities.
Parting Shot
A formidable Global Plastics Treaty is not merely crucial for Africa—it is imperative for the entire world. It presents an unparalleled opportunity for Africa to confront plastic pollution challenges, protect unique ecosystems, and enhance the health and well-being of its people. Through collaboration with the global community, the African negotiators can usher in sustainable solutions, paving the way for a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous continent free from the shackles of plastic for future generations.
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