Neighbour burning plastic

I live in Mbeya and our neighbour constantly burns plastic and rubbish near our houses, creating smoke and a bad smell. We tried asking him to stop, but he says it is his right since it’s his compound. Can he really burn waste as he wishes on his property? Please guide us, we are suffering from this neighbour’s behaviour.

KL, Mbeya

Neighbours can sometimes be difficult. The disposal of plastic is governed by various laws, including the Environmental Management (Hazardous Waste Control) Regulations, 2021 (G.N. No. 389 of 2021), as plastic is classified as a hazardous waste under these Regulations. Regulation 71 states that anyone who produces hazardous waste must ensure it is (a) disposed of in an environmentally sound manner; or (b) handled by persons with collection and transportation permits under these Regulations.

Many households produce plastic waste because it is used in packaging various domestic items. The Regulations stipulate that hazardous waste, including household plastic waste, should be collected by authorised collectors or taken to recycling centres, as this is a responsible disposal method. Your local bylaws also have rules on waste management, so report any neighbour who breaches these to the local government authorities, as they have the power to require your neighbour to cease such practices. However, before taking drastic steps, consider informing your neighbour that private property rights do not extend to actions that threaten public health or environmental safety. Engage in a discussion, if necessary, and seek guidance from your local government authority for further action.