Zimbabwe rallies against plastic pollution on World Environment Day

Herald Reporter

GOVERNMENT, environmental organisations, development partners, industry leaders and young people today united in a nationwide call for urgent action against plastic pollution during Zimbabwe’s World Environment Day commemorations held at Mukuvisi Woodlands in Harare.

Held under the theme “A Plastic-Free Environment is Possible — Play Your Part”, the event highlighted the growing threat posed by plastic waste to ecosystems, public health and sustainable development, while reinforcing the need for collective action to protect the environment.

The commemorations attracted senior Government officials, environmental experts, schoolchildren, development partners and private sector representatives who participated in clean-up campaigns, tree-planting exercises, environmental exhibitions and awareness programmes.

Leading the celebrations, Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire said environmental stewardship was central to Zimbabwe’s development agenda and called on citizens to embrace sustainable practices.

“Climate action is no longer an option. It is a necessity. Climate change is affecting rainfall patterns, food security, water availability, biodiversity and livelihoods across our nation,” he said

Minister Machakaire said Zimbabwe’s decision to localise the global World Environment Day campaign through a focus on plastic pollution reflected the urgency of addressing one of the country’s most visible environmental challenges.

“Plastic pollution clogs drainage systems, pollutes rivers, contaminates soils, harms livestock and wildlife, and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions when improperly disposed of,” he said.

While the Government has strengthened environmental regulations, promoted recycling initiatives and improved waste management systems, Minister Machakaire said lasting success would depend on individual and collective responsibility.

“The environment is not protected by policies alone. It is protected by our behaviour and daily actions,” he said.

“A clean Zimbabwe begins with you, a clean Zimbabwe begins with me, and a clean Zimbabwe begins with all of us.”

The commemorations coincided with the monthly National Clean-Up Day programme, with participants cleaning sections of Mukuvisi Woodlands and surrounding areas.

Environmental organisations showcased conservation initiatives through exhibitions, including awareness campaigns on biodiversity protection, habitat conservation and sustainable resource management.

Participants also took part in nature walks, ambient water sampling and water quality testing exercises, while schoolchildren engaged in environmental education programmes designed to promote responsible waste management and conservation practices.

Representing the voice of young people, the Junior President challenged citizens and institutions to continue supporting environmental education and youth-led climate action.

“We are ready to support the Government in creating a pollution-free environment,” he said.

“We are the generation that will inherit this planet, and we need guidance on how to protect it. A plastic-free environment is possible, and everyone must play their part.”

Speaking on behalf of UNICEF Zimbabwe, Climate, Environment and Energy specialist Mrs Egline Tawuya said climate change was already affecting the lives of children across the country.

She said findings from the Child-Centred Climate Vulnerability Assessment Report revealed that many Zimbabwean children were exposed to environmental hazards, including droughts, floods, pollution and extreme heat.

“These environmental challenges threaten children’s health, education and future opportunities. Climate change is no longer a distant threat. It is shaping the daily realities of communities across Zimbabwe,” she said.

Mrs Tawuya commended young people for taking a leading role in environmental protection through clean-up campaigns, tree-planting initiatives and climate awareness programmes.

The private sector also pledged stronger action in promoting sustainable industrialisation and waste management solutions.