The Malawi Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) has intensified enforcement of the ban on thin plastics in Lilongwe as part of ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal plastics from the market and protect the environment. 

The enforcement exercise targets manufacturers, wholesalers, vendors retailers, suspected and of producing or selling banned thin plastics in violation of the Environment Management (Plastics) Regulations, 2015. 

MEPA has conducted inspections in 29 markets and industrial areas, including Mpanipani, Bypass, Njewa, Kanengo, Sungwi, Wakawaka, Area 24, Chilinde, Kawale Lumbadzi, Area 18, Area 23, Mtandire, Mtsiriza, Likuni, Chinsapo, Kauma, and Cent markets. 

The operation has resulted in the confiscation of over 45 tonnes of banned thin plastics, and 6 shops and 2 manufacturing companies that were found producing or selling the prohibited plastics were closed. 

MEPA has emphasized that the enforcement exercise ongoing, and is further inspections will continue in additional markets manufacturing facilities and to ensure full compliance with the plastics regulations.