MILLICENT HUNGWE
The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has confirmed that Zimbabwe will join the rest of the world in observing World Clean-Up Day on September 20, under the global theme, “Strive for Five Tackling Textile and Fashion Waste.”
The national observance aligns with Zimbabwe’s “Clean-up Month of September”, a period dedicated to intensive waste management activities.
EMA spokesperson, Amkela Sidange emphasized the importance of this global campaign, which offers a unique platform for communities to come together in cleaning their environments and promoting sustainable waste management.
“This year, Zimbabwe will localize the theme under ‘Ending Plastic and Textile Pollution,’ addressing the growing challenge of waste caused by the fashion industry and plastic use.
“Textile waste, which includes synthetic fibers that take hundreds of years to decompose, is a significant contributor to environmental degradation,” she told the media.
Sidange said the campaign aims to promote circular economy models within the textile industry, encouraging the public to reuse, repair, and recycle instead of relying on the traditional “take-make-dispose” approach.
The day also aims to boost responsible consumption and support sustainable production practices.
Various stakeholders, including manufacturers, faith-based groups, educational institutions, and the general public, have been urged to participate in the clean-up efforts.
Events are scheduled across the country, including, Harare Metropolitan Province, The Lions International will host a clean-up at Glenview 8 Complex with plastics handed over to recyclers, Bulawayo and Matabeleland Provinces, Luveve, Padre Pio Parish (Bulawayo), and Emakhandeni.
EMA and The Recyclers Association of Zimbabwe will lead major clean-up events and faith-based groups and community members will join hands in localized activities, The Midweek Watch confirmed.
Sidange also called on media houses to help amplify World Clean-Up Day by giving coverage to these events, stressing that it is the responsibility of all Zimbabweans to act, not just for a day, but as a lifestyle.
“Let’s all do our part in ending plastic and textile pollution to protect our environment and future generations,” she said.
