The Tanzanian government is committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses and achieving sustainable development goals. MOSHI District Commissioner Kisare Makori expressed pride in Kilimanjaro’s status as the first region in Tanzania to celebrate the International Day on Zero Waste. He called for greater public awareness and collaboration among stakeholders for environmental conservation.
Various stakeholders, including the East African Business Council (EABC), GIZ-GFA, Azania Bank, Salinero Hotel, Coca-Cola Bonite Bottlers, A to Z Textiles Mills, Tanzania Coffee Association, and TAHA, came together to commemorate the International Day of Zero Waste. EABC CEO John Bosco Kalisa highlighted the importance of zero-waste initiatives, as global waste generation is expected to increase by 73% from 2020 levels to 3.88 billion tonnes in 2050. He also noted that waste generation worldwide currently amounts to 2.24 billion tonnes, equivalent to a footprint of 0.79 kilogrammes per person per day.
Stakeholders Urge for Circular Economy and Job Creation
Arumeru DC Emmanuela Kaganda called on investors to explore business opportunities in the circular economy, such as waste recycling. The EAC’s Treaty for the establishment tasks Partner States to take a coordinated approach to protect the environment for sustainable development. The EABC, representing businesses in East Africa, has committed to championing circular economy and zero waste initiatives to create more jobs for the youthful population.
One example is the Polyethylene Terephthalate Recycle Company (PETPRO) in Tanzania, which aims to collect and recycle 12.5 million tons of plastic waste and create 5,000 jobs. This initiative, among others, seeks to improve the economy while reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
Tanzania’s celebrating of the International Day of Zero Waste shows that the country is taking steps towards a more sustainable future. With support from stakeholders and the government’s commitment, initiatives such as PETPRO can make significant progress in achieving their goals. It is vital to continue educating the public and collaborating among actors to achieve long-term success in waste reduction and environmental conservation.
