Botala leads in environmental sustainability with compostable products
Staff Writer | Wednesday November 19, 2025 06:27
he initiative marks a major contribution to environmental protection and improved waste management, at a time when the country is intensifying efforts to curb plastic pollution. The development was revealed by Botala Plastics Managing Director, Imran Haddad, in an interview on the sidelines of the State of the Nation Address (SONA) last week. He noted that the company is pioneering environmentally friendly packaging solutions in the region. “Botala Plastics is the sole manufacturer of compostable products in Botswana, and the first in Southern Africa. “We are a trusted leader in manufacturing high-quality compostable products designed to replace traditional plastics,” said Haddad. He added that Botala’s operations are aligned with internationally accredited best practices, ensuring that every product meets rigorous global sustainability and performance standards. Haddad emphasised that the company’s mission is to drive real environmental change by offering innovative, sustainable alternatives that fully break down without leaving harmful waste behind. “Our aim is to eliminate plastic pollution and reduce the national carbon footprint while providing reliable, planet-friendly solutions for everyday use,” he said. His remarks follow President Duma Boko’s announcement during the SONA that Botswana has officially banned single-use plastic bags.
The President underscored that the country now has access to viable biodegradable alternatives, eliminating any justification for continued use of traditional plastics. “Government has taken a decision to ban single use plastic bags. The industry has advanced to a point where biodegradable packaging is available, hence there is no excuse. “The cleanliness of our environment is a personal responsibility that should be engrained in us as a habit,” Boko declared. While acknowledging that waste management in Botswana remains insufficient, the President reiterated the country’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and the global fight against climate change. He revealed that the government is developing a comprehensive National Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy and strengthening climate-finance frameworks. “These engagements will unlock new avenues for financing climate-resilient infrastructure, green innovation and sustainable livelihoods, further reinforcing our commitment to a low-carbon, climate-smart future,” he added.
Echoing the President’s sentiments, Haddad highlighted the environmental benefits of Botala’s compostable bags. He noted that unlike conventional plastics—which clog drainage systems, pollute urban spaces and harm ecosystems Botala’s products naturally decompose into nutrient-rich compost without releasing toxins. “Since our bags are compostable, they can break down in any environment, even in landfills, without needing an industrial facility. They also have a low carbon footprint as they are made from renewable plant-based materials that produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions during their life cycle,” he explained. With the national ban on single-use plastics now in effect, Botala Plastics’ leadership in sustainable product innovation positions the company as a key player in Botswana’s transition toward a cleaner, greener future.