Stop Plastic, Start Action

Twambo says Immediate steps is needed from youth to tackle plastic pollution.

By Francis Maingaila

LUSAKA, Zambia24 – (June 5, 2025) - The continued indiscriminate use and disposal of plastic materials is contributing to rising climate-related threats in Zambia, including increased temperatures, flooding, and environmental degradation.

Speaking during World Environment Day commemorations in Lusaka on Thursday, organised by Hivos in partnership with the Zambia Climate Change Network (ZCCN), Itezhi Tezhi Member of Parliament Twaambo Mutinta called on young people to take the lead in combating plastic pollution, describing their role as critical in reducing the long-term impact of climate change.

Mutinta, who co-chairs the Parliamentary Caucus on Environment and Climate Change, said reversing these trends will require tighter enforcement of environmental laws and stronger public engagement in sustainable practices.

He urged youths to use social media platforms to spread awareness and drive action.

“You are not too young to lead—whether by organizing clean-up campaigns, developing eco-friendly packaging, or using social media to educate others. You have the power—use it,” Mutinta said.

Mutinta cited the Environmental Management (Extended Producer Responsibility) Regulations of 2018 as a key tool in holding businesses accountable for plastic waste.

He explained that the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework shifts responsibility to producers and importers, requiring them to not only rethink how products are packaged but also to take full responsibility for their products after consumption.

“Extended Producer Responsibility compels producers to redesign packaging with the environment in mind, manage post-consumer waste, and invest in recycling systems,” he said. 

“This approach is one of the most effective ways to cure the problem of indiscriminate plastic use because it tackles pollution at the source—before it reaches our streets, rivers, and communities.”

However, he emphasized that laws alone are insufficient without complementary action from the public.

“We cannot legislate change from Parliament alone. We need action from every household, school, market stall, and community,” he said, adding that the biggest challenge in addressing plastic pollution is the lack of collective action.

Shiwang’andu Member of Parliament Stephen Kampyongo, also co-chair of the environmental protection caucus, called for laws that are both enforceable and widely accepted by society.

He stressed the importance of continuous sensitization to promote behavioral change.

Nkana MP Binwell Mpundu, founder of the youth-driven Movement for Good Governance, echoed these sentiments, urging young people to rise to the challenge and become champions of environmental responsibility.

Earlier, Vuyo Maphango, Project Manager for Strengthening Respect for Environmental Rights in Zambia under Hivos, said plastic waste continues to damage ecosystems and public health.

He warned that the situation will worsen if a coordinated national response is not implemented urgently.

This year’s World Environment Day was commemorated under the global theme “Beating Plastic Pollution” and brought together lawmakers, environmentalists, students, and members of the public—all calling for stronger partnerships to tackle Zambia’s growing waste crisis.