The Malawi Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) performs a number of regulatory functions including Waste Management. Section 56 of Environmental Management Act No.19 of 2017 states that, the Minister shall on recommendation of the Authority make provisions for the management, transportation, treatment and recycling, and reduction of waste, safe disposal of waste, and for prohibiting littering of public places. To ensure this, MEPA issues licenses to handle, store, transport, classify or destroy waste other than domestic waste or operate a waste disposal site or plant or generate waste in accordance to the provisions of Environmental Management Act No.19 of 2017. This leaflet explains the important aspects of waste management licenses and import/export permits including transboundary issues.
it takes a minimum of 1 month. it is therefore advised that individuals or entities process a renewal license a month before expiration.
The waste management license is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. The import/export permit is valid for six months and requires renewal every six months.
To regulate the handling, storage, transport, disposal, import, and export of waste, minimizing environmental impacts and promoting sustainable practices
The Authority is responsible for notifying the neighbouring country of the transboundary movement in regard to import/export of wastes.
The form shall contain the applicant’s full names, postal and physical addresses and any other particulars in relation to the type of waste.