The Kerkennah archipelago, located off the coast of Sfax, is a strategically important island group for Tunisia—ecologically and economically. Covering 150 km², the archipelago includes the main islands of Chergui and Gharbi, along with several uninhabited islets.

With its shallow waters and seagrass meadows (Posidonia), Kerkennah supports rich Mediterranean marine biodiversity. Yet, the islands face mounting environmental threats: coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and alarming levels of plastic pollution driven by fishing, tourism, and inadequate waste management systems.

To address these challenges, MedWaves commissioned a study (available in French) by SMILO to map local plastic-related initiatives and evaluate how they align with national and international policies. The study provides actionable recommendations and quantifiable solutions to enhance the effectiveness of these efforts. It contributes to the UNEP/MAP Programme of Work (Activity 1.1.1), which aims to build on pilot actions combating marine litter in marine protected areas and Mediterranean islands. A key focus is showing how grassroots island initiatives contribute to broader policy goals—and, in turn, how island-specific challenges highlight gaps in regional and global frameworks.

Key Takeaways from the Study (explored in depth in the full report):

• Local initiatives prove that even with limited resources, innovative solutions for sustainable waste management are possible. However, stronger public policy support, deeper community engagement, and active citizen participation are essential to scale these efforts.
• Inclusive, effective governance is critical to ensure long-term impact and sustainability.
• Improved waste collection and recycling infrastructure, greater stakeholder awareness, and the promotion of alternatives to single-use plastics are urgent priorities.
• Embracing technology and sustainable financing mechanisms can accelerate the transition and build on current progress.

Spotlight on the “No More Plastic in Kerkennah” Project: Local Action, Global Vision

Amid these challenges, several local projects have emerged—one of the most prominent being “No More Plastic in Kerkennah” (NMPK). Launched in 2024 by the Municipality of Kerkennah and funded by the EU-backed Remedies project, NMPK offers practical solutions to reduce plastic pollution, raise awareness, and support a resilient local economy.

The project is structured around three core pillars:

• Plastic-Free Drinking Water

Plastic bottles are a major source of pollution on the island. To tackle this, NMPK is installing water fountains in schools and public spaces, using a system that dehumidifies and filters rainwater stored in on-site cisterns.

Historically, rainwater was Kerkennah’s primary drinking water source. By reintroducing this resource—now made safe with advanced filtration systems like reverse osmosis—the project aims to significantly reduce the use of PET bottles while promoting a sustainable local solution.

• Plastic-Free Shopping

Local markets, bakeries, and corner stores in Kerkennah still rely heavily on single-use plastic bags. To encourage a shift, the project is distributing kraft paper bags free of charge.

This initiative also includes incentives to foster a local paper bag industry in collaboration with manufacturers from nearby Sfax.

• Preserving Traditional Craftsmanship

Beyond waste reduction, NMPK also focuses on reviving traditional crafts threatened by the rise of plastic. One such practice is the artisanal use of date palm leaves to create household items—a tradition deeply rooted in island life.

Workshops are being held to teach how to make fishing traps and other everyday items from palm branches. These traditional traps, once widespread, are being replaced by plastic versions that damage marine ecosystems and litter the land. The initiative not only revives an eco-friendly practice but also connects younger generations to their cultural heritage.

Anchored in National and International Policy

The “No More Plastic in Kerkennah” project is part of a wider movement aligned with multiple environmental strategies:

1. At the national level, it supports Tunisia’s “Plastic-Free Coastline” strategy, which aims to reduce coastal plastic waste through awareness, improved waste management, and innovation. By targeting plastic bottles, promoting reusable alternatives, and revitalizing traditional crafts, NMPK directly advances these national goals.
2. At the Mediterranean level, the project contributes to the objectives of the Barcelona Convention’s Regional Plan on Marine Litter, which aims to reduce plastic waste in the Mediterranean Sea.

Conclusion

Kerkennah’s proactive approach to tackling plastic pollution highlights the power of island communities to lead through innovation, resilience, and tradition. It’s a powerful example of how local action can shape a sustainable future—and inspire regional and global change.