Plastics are the largest, most harmful and most persistent of marine litter.
Plastic pollution threatens ocean health, the health of marine species, food safety and quality, human health, coastal tourism, and contributes to climate change.
Over 300 million tons of plastic are produced every year, half of which is used to create single-use items such as shopping bags, cups and straws. If discarded improperly, plastic waste can harm the environment and biodiversity.
According to a report by the United Nations Environment Program, an estimated eight million tons of plastic is dumped into the oceans each year — 80% of it from uncollected land waste.
The impact of this along Kenya’s coastal areas like Watamu is critical because the region relies heavily on tourism for income.
Visiting Nairobi recently, ahead of the resumed session of the fifth United Nations Environment Assembly, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced America’s support for a new global agreement to combat ocean plastic pollution. Juma Majanga spoke with environmental activists in Kenya where the announcement was made to find out their thoughts on U.S. support for a global pact to combat plastic pollution in the oceans.
Watch that report here.
