Govt to intensify crackdown on plastic pollution

The Namibian government has pledged to intensify its fight against plastic pollution, announcing stricter enforcement measures during a national World Environment Day commemoration in Swakopmund earlier this month.Environment minister Indileni Daniel said enforcement of the ban on plastic bags in protected areas will be stepped up.“Plastic pollution is everywhere, from ocean trenches to mountain peaks. Urgent and collaborative action is needed,” she said.This year's theme, 'Ending Plastic Pollution, drew attention to government efforts to limit plastic waste and promote a shift towards more sustainable practices. Daniel cited ongoing national clean-up campaigns and environmental awareness drives as central to a broader strategy of responsible waste management.She said government was driving a transition toward a circular economy in line with Namibia’s National Development Plan 6. This includes policies to promote recycling, reduce single-use plastics and encourage more sustainable consumption.All hands on deck Erongo was selected to host this year’s commemoration due to its economic significance and growing environmental pressures. The region’s key sectors, including mining, manufacturing, tourism and water purification, are facing mounting challenges from plastic waste.Erongo regional council chairperson Florian Donatus urged broader participation in tackling pollution.“World Environment Day should not just be a day of commemoration but should be a day of taking care of our environment,” he said.Speakers throughout the event stressed that legislative action alone cannot solve the plastic problem. Daniel said meaningful progress requires behavioural changes across all sectors of society and that plastic waste reduction is linked to broader environmental goals, including climate resilience and biodiversity protection.

Govt to intensify crackdown on plastic pollution

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Namibian Sun 2026-11-12

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Govt to intensify crackdown on plastic pollution

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Namibian Sun 2026-11-12

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