In a proactive bid to combat plastic pollutionand promote proper solid waste management, the Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe(WCoZ) has pledged its commitment to raiseawareness of the dangers of unhygienic diaper disposal and its devastating effects on theenvironment.Recognizing the urgent need to address the negativeimpact of disposable diapers on the environment, thewomen’s organization has emphasized that its effortswill be centered on raising awareness, implementingsustainable alternatives, and advocating for stricter regulations.Disposable diapers contribute to plastic waste andcontribute to pollution in landfills and water bodies.According to a report by the United Nations EnvironmentProgramme (UNEP), approximately 75-85% of useddisposable diapers end up in landfills or are incinerated.They are estimated to take around 500 years to decompose. The plastic componentsof diapers, such as the outer lining and absorbent gel materials, can persist in the environment for an extended period.Addressing Women at an engagement meeting recentlyheld in Gweru to commemorate World Environment Day,WCoZ Gweru Chapter Chairperson Nozipho Rutsate emphasized the urgency of addressing plastic pollution. “Plastic pollution poses a serious threat to our environment, endangering our ecosystems, wildlife, and even human health. Diapers, in particular, constitute a significantportion of plastic waste in our communities, contributing tothe degradation of our surroundings. It is crucial that weeducate ourselves about the dangers of improper diaperdisposal and take action to minimize plastic pollution,”she said.Furthermore, Rutsate emphasized the need for activeengagement from society, stating, “As responsible citizens,we all have a role to play. By raising awareness about theconsequences of unhygienic diaper disposal and encouraging proper waste management,we can collectively address this issue and create a cleaner,more sustainable environment for ourselves and futuregenerations.” Another WCoZ member,Locadia Mavhudzi, highlighted the importance ofawareness, particularly among women, to address diaper pollution effectively. “As mothers and caretakers, women play a critical rolein diaper usage. By spreading knowledge about the environmental impact of plastic diapers and encouraging alternative eco-friendly options, wecan significantly reduce the menace of diaper pollution,”Mavhudzi emphasized.In support of these efforts,Gweru City Council Chairperson for Environment, TrustChinene, reiterated the council’s commitment to curbingplastic pollution and promoting proper waste management.”The Gweru City Council is fully aware of the implications of plastic pollution onour environment. We are working tirelessly to implement effective waste management policies, including initiatives aimed at minimizingplastic waste. We encourageresidents to actively participate in these efforts and joinhands in tackling this dire problem. However, as councilwe expect residents to abide by the by-laws that protect the environment,” he saidSpeaking at the same event,Gweru Residents and Ratepayers Association (GRRA) Executive Director Conerlia Selipiwe called upon residentsto unite in the fight against plastic pollution.”Plastic pollution threatens our ecosystems and exacerbates global climate change.We must acknowledge the urgency of this issue andwork together to find sustainable solutions. By supportinginitiatives like WCoZ’s awareness campaign, we takea significant step towards creating a cleaner, healthierplanet for all,” he said.WCoZ plans to collaborate with local businesses,NGOs, and government bodies to implement comprehensive waste management systems that encourage alternatives to disposable diapers.
