By Violet Auma
In the heart of western Kenya, traditions run deep. The counties of Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, and Busia are renowned for their rich cultural heritage, with funeral rites standing out as profound expressions of community identity. Over generations, these rites have evolved, reflecting both cultural pride and the pressures of modernity.
Funerals in these communities are more than solemn occasions; they are intricate social events where expectations and obligations intertwine. In the past, such ceremonies were communal affairs, with families and neighbors preparing meals and drinks for attendees. Skipping a funeral, even for valid reasons, could lead to severe social repercussions. It wasn’t uncommon for absentees to be labeled as enemies of the family or, in extreme cases, accused of witchcraft linked to the deceased’s demise.
Today, funerals remain deeply significant but have taken on a more elaborate form. They have become social gatherings where food and drink play a central role. Comments like “So-and-so’s funeral wasn’t good” often reflect dissatisfaction with catering arrangements rather than the solemnity of the occasion. Venues are often packed beyond capacity, with attendees vying for space to mourn, socialize, and partake in the meals provided.
Over the years, families have increasingly turned to professional catering services to manage the growing expectations for funerals. These caterers provide not only food but also beverages, primarily water and sodas, to quench the thirst of mourners. However, this convenience comes with an environmental cost.
Plastic bottles, used to serve water and sodas, have become ubiquitous at funerals. After the ceremonies, countless bottles are discarded at venues or along roadsides. Unlike traditional practices that prioritized sustainable methods, this modern shift has introduced a significant ecological challenge.
Environmental Impact of Plastic Waste
The aftermath of these events often paints a grim picture. Plastic bottles clog drainage systems, leading to stagnant water and the proliferation of mosquitoes, which in turn increases cases of malaria. These clogged systems also contribute to waterborne diseases, adding to the public health burden in already vulnerable communities. Beyond health concerns, the bottles frequently find their way into rivers and lakes, endangering aquatic ecosystems and disrupting livelihoods dependent on these water bodies.
Environmentalists have raised the alarm over this growing plastic menace. Advocacy groups and local activists have urged for sustainable alternatives, such as refillable or returnable bottles, to address the issue. Yet, the problem persists, exacerbated by the actions of global corporations.
Coca-Cola and the Plastic Crisis
Among the companies contributing to plastic pollution, Coca-Cola stands out. Established in 1886 in Atlanta, Georgia, Coca-Cola is one of the world’s most recognizable brands. However, it has faced consistent criticism for its environmental footprint. Advocacy groups like Break Free From Plastic (BFFP) have repeatedly named Coca-Cola as a leading plastic polluter.
In 2022, Coca-Cola pledged to use 50% recycled materials in its packaging by 2030 and to sell 25% of its beverages in reusable packaging. However, the company later revised these targets, aiming for only 35-40% recycled material by 2035 and abandoning the reusable packaging goal. Critics have labeled these actions as “greenwashing”—making promises that lack substantive follow-through.
Recently, Coca-Cola launched a campaign in Kenya to promote the return of its glass bottles. Unveiled in Kakamega, the initiative seeks to revive nostalgia for returnable glass bottles while promoting sustainability. These glass bottles, which can be reused over 40 cycles, align with principles of a circular economy and provide an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastics. The global market for returnable glass bottles is projected to grow significantly, reflecting increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
Despite these efforts, Coca-Cola continues to face scrutiny. Scaling back on earlier commitments undermines global efforts to combat plastic pollution. Research indicates that achieving the original target of 25% reusable packaging by 2030 could prevent over 100 billion single-use bottles from polluting the environment. Environmental advocates emphasize that bold and transparent actions are needed to address the plastic crisis effectively.
Kenya’s Stance on Plastics
Kenya has been proactive in addressing plastic waste. In 2017, the country banned the use of plastic carrier bags, a move driven by mounting environmental and health costs. That same year, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) directed manufacturers of plastic bottles to establish collection points. Failure to comply would result in a ban on the production, sale, and use of plastic bottles.
John Konchellah, then-chair of NEMA’s board, stated that plastic bottles formed a significant portion of solid waste scattered across the country. According to the Ministry of Environment, approximately 50 million plastic bottles were used annually in Kenya at the time. While penalties for using plastic bags include hefty fines and jail terms, the challenge of plastic bottles remains unresolved. Without urgent interventions, this issue could escalate further.
A Call for Action
The cultural significance of funeral feasts in western Kenya is undeniable, but so too is their environmental impact. Families, communities, corporations, and policymakers must come together to find sustainable solutions. Coca-Cola’s returnable glass bottle campaign is a step in the right direction, but more comprehensive and transparent measures are essential.
As the debate continues, the responsibility to balance tradition with sustainability becomes ever more pressing. By embracing eco-friendly practices, communities in western Kenya can honor their rich cultural heritage while safeguarding their environment for future generations.
