Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
THE Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has urged Zimbabweans to embrace a plastic-free environment to protect the country’s wetlands, warning that plastic pollution is threatening vital ecosystems and water sources.
In a statement marking Plastic Free Month, EMA described wetlands as Zimbabwe’s natural water purification systems that filter water, sustain communities and support biodiversity.
The agency said improperly discarded plastic waste is often washed through stormwater drains into wetlands, where it accumulates and causes long-term environmental damage.
Our wetlands are Zimbabwe’s natural water purification systems. They filter the water we drink, sustain our communities, and give life to our biodiversity. But when we discard a single plastic bottle in the street, gravity and stormwater drains make our wetlands the final destination,” said EMA.
The agency warned that plastic does not decompose but instead breaks down into microplastics, which contaminate water sources and pose a threat to both human health and ecosystems.
EMA said protecting the country’s water resources begins with responsible waste disposal and reducing plastic use, adding that individual actions have a direct impact on the health of downstream ecosystems.
“This July marks Plastic Free Month. We cannot protect our water if we continue to choke its source. Your habits upstream dictate the life of our ecosystems downstream,” the agency said.
EMA called on Zimbabweans to become part of the solution by preventing plastic pollution at its source rather than allowing waste to reach wetlands and rivers.
The agency also urged members of the public to participate in the National Clean-up Day this Friday by clearing litter from streets, open spaces and waterways as part of efforts to promote a cleaner, healthier and plastic-free environment.
