Nairobi removes 4,000 tons of plastic bag waste per month. The over-abundance of this waste is not a new topic of discussion, but stretches beyond the waste alone. And while plastic bags may seem not like the largest deal, compared to disease and poverty, the problem is affecting more than you think, and is showing hints that it may even continue to grow.

The bags originate from the plethora of retail and vendor outlets. And while they are necessary to carry goods, when it comes to disposal, both consumers and vendors lack accountability. Whether it is lack of a proper waste management system or other reasons , plastic bags are not ending up where they should. They are ending up in the streets, rivers, alongside homes,  in foliage, and in the sewage systems.  The waste is also segregated by the urban and social makeup of environments. The poorer sections of Nairobi account for the largest percentage of this waste, while the central business districts and wealthier sects regularly clean up. Their percentage is significantly smaller, but still there.

So why doesn't Nairobi just outlaw plastic bags if they are such a big problem? Well, plastic jobs and this industry employs thousands of workers-cut this and you have move issues to deal with. As well, it is a profitable business for those in the industry. And lastly, plastic bags are cheaper than anything else. With such a high poverty rate,  any option isn't an option.Along with tension between the government, the the paper bags produce a multiple of socio-environmental problems including drain blockage, death to livestock, decreased soil productivity, increased spread of malaria, the release of toxic gases, in addition to the unattractive look.

As for now, the situation lies at a win-lose situation. Help the environment or help the stakeholders? Take away jobs or take away garbage? In time to come and the help of policy reforms, Nairobi should be able to address this problem.