The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has given all county governments 21 days to reorganize dumpsites and enforce waste segregation at the source.
In a Gazette Notice dated September 19, NEMA said the directive is part of the Sustainable Waste Management Act (SWMA), which requires waste generators to separate waste before disposal and transporters to carry only segregated waste.
“County Governments are REQUIRED and DIRECTED to within the next 21 days, accelerate the transition towards a circular economy in waste management by facilitating segregation of waste at source and in transit by reorganizing dumpsites accordingly,” the notice read in part.
Under the rules, waste must be stored in colour-coded bins: green for organic waste, black for general waste, and blue for recyclables.
The authority explained that proper segregation will help build a circular economy, turning waste into a resource where recyclables and other valuables can be recovered. NEMA further urged service providers to ensure they collect, handle, and transport waste without mixing different categories, with organic waste channelled to material recovery facilities.
Earlier in July, NEMA announced it would enforce laws requiring households to separate waste into organic and non-organic categories. The agency also banned the use of plastic garbage bags, directing collection companies and individuals to adopt biodegradable alternatives.
Officials say the new measures are meant to safeguard the environment while promoting sustainable waste management practices across the country.
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