The President of Guinea's Consumer Defense Union (UDCG), M'Bany Sidibé, has appealed to the authorities for a one-year moratorium on the ban of certain single-use plastics. The ban, which came into effect on September 20, 2026, has caused significant difficulties for consumers in accessing essential goods. Sidibé stated that consumers are struggling to obtain potable water, mineral water, and biodegradable plastic bags, leading to a substantial degradation of living conditions.
The UDCG president highlighted the issue of water scarcity and price increases in Guinea. He noted that the union will submit a document to the government with proposed solutions for sustainable environmental protection, sanitation, and regular waste collection. The document aims to provide a structural solution to the challenges posed by the plastic ban.
Sidibé emphasized that the UDCG will actively participate in awareness-raising, education, and accompaniment of local authorities for regular waste collection and treatment. The union advocates for a gradual ecological transition based on a credible structural policy for environmental protection, waste treatment, and collection.
The ban on single-use plastics was introduced to protect the environment, but its implementation has caused significant hardship for consumers. Sidibé stressed that the UDCG is aware of the extreme suffering of consumers in accessing quality water and the related public health problems.
In light of these challenges, the UDCG is calling for a one-year moratorium on the plastic ban to allow for the implementation of alternative solutions. The union believes that this moratorium will enable consumers to access essential goods while the government works on implementing sustainable solutions.
The Guinean government has been working to address environmental issues, including waste management. However, the UDCG's appeal highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to environmental protection that balances the needs of consumers and the environment.
The UDCG's proposal for a one-year moratorium on the plastic ban is a pragmatic solution that aims to mitigate the negative impacts of the ban on consumers. The union's efforts to engage with the government and stakeholders demonstrate its commitment to finding sustainable solutions to Guinea's environmental challenges.
Key points
- The UDCG is advocating for a one-year moratorium on the ban of certain single-use plastics in Guinea.
- The plastic ban has caused significant difficulties for consumers in accessing essential goods, including potable water and mineral water.
- The UDCG proposes to work with the government to implement sustainable solutions for environmental protection, sanitation, and waste management.
