Rwanda: Polythene? No, thanks!

Although everybody knows that the thin black plastic shopping bags are not to be used anymore, there is still confusion as to other polythene products. Yet there needn't be, as REMA has issued a clear directive on the matter. In principle no type of polythene material is allowed in Rwanda. This country has taken a rather overly-tough stand against polythene materials, and it is working. However, as there is no rule without exceptions, this ban also has two or three exceptions: one is on imported new clothing, and the other is on polythene used in hospitals and in agriculture (in nursery beds). In the last two cases, however, written permission from the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) is required. Rwanda is among the first countries in the world to introduce such a comprehensive ban against polythene. It has been a gradual yet quick process. About three years ago, Rwanda started with the black thin-membrane shopping bag. Back then, other thicker polythene shopping bags were still allowed based on the rationale that they could be reused, hence their multiplication was minimized. That is now history. On March 27, REMA issued a directive effectively banning all polythene shopping bags of all sizes and colors, all polythene used in wrapping boxes or other goods, polythene used by the dry cleaners, polythene used to pack mineral water or juice, and all polythene imported without REMA's authorization. This same directive allows the exceptions on new imported clothes and on hospitals and agriculture. It's also worth noting that even for these exceptions, REMA can only grant authorization after assurance that the materials will be taken for recycling at local recycling units. And the good news is that it has worked. Rwandans as usual have quickly adapted to the new ways; using kaki envelops and other bags for their shopping. Neighboring states have praised Rwanda for this and vowed to emulate the example.