WINDHOEK: Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta, on Thursday inaugurated Namibia’s first Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Plastic Recycling Plant aimed at reducing plastic waste.

The N.dollars 24 million plant, situated in Okahandja, is a joint endeavor between Namibia Polymer Recyclers and Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) in Namibia.

PET is a clear, strong, and lightweight plastic that is widely used for packaging foods and beverages, especially convenience-sized soft drinks, juices and water.

In a statement issued to Nampa, Shifeta at the inauguration ceremony said the cutting-edge facility will enable Namibia

Polymer Recyclers to process up to 500 tons of PET material per month which is significantly reducing the need for virgin PET while diverting substantial waste from landfills and our precious environment.

‘ By doubling the capacity of our mechanical plastic waste recycling, we are not only addressing the pressing issue of plastic pollution but also unlocking economic opp
ortunities for our nation,’ he said.

Shifeta emphasised that his ministry remains committed to its mandate to create an enabling environment for doing business and to continue to initiate policy interventions and strategies to promote an environmentally friendly and conducive space for businesses to thrive.

He further noted that waste management practices such as composting, reusing, and reducing consumption can significantly lessen the environmental footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency