The ability of the environment to serve the needs of the present and future generations while naturally regenerating depends entirely on our day-to-day activities. From waste generation, exploitation of fossil fuels to the harvesting of forests.
The Seychelles
Let me draw your attention to the Republic of Seychelles. In July 2017, the ban on the importation of plastic items such as plastic bags, straws, and plates, among others, came into full effect.
An initiative to keep the streets, roads, and walk-paths clean is in full force. Those employed are doing it with a passion. This also applies to the beach areas.
Warning signs “NO SWIMMING, NO LITTERING, you will be prosecuted” are well spelled out in several areas. It is not like people don’t know that it is unethical and an offense to litter. However, such warning signs serve as a reminder; it makes potential polluters uncomfortable.
It goes without saying; ‘you are responsible for your dirt-clean after you.’
Waste separation is incredibly implemented across the 3 islands. Clearly labeled trash bins for different types of wastes are stationed in various locations. What I can’t be sure of is whether the citizens separate their wastes.
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To reinforce conservation of the most treasured features in all the islands, they are more protected and can only be accessed by making an entrance fee as well as using guided excursions. That is a viable strategy to strengthen the commitment of the tourists not to litter or damage flora and fauna.
Forests are well protected.
La Dique- a cycling island plays a significant role in reducing air pollution. As small as it is, everyone, including the tourists, has to either cycle or walk. There are no buses for public transportation like in Mahe and Praslin islands.
Buses that carry an average of 40 people serve as the public means of transport in Mahe and Praslin islands that are the first and second-largest islands in Seychelles, respectively. My approximation is that 95% of personal vehicles are small cars that consume less gasoline; thus, fewer carbon emissions often associated with exhaust from vehicles.
Kenya’s perspective
Kenya is at a time that needs to reduce the number of vehicles on the roads; both personal and public service vehicles. Phase-out the 10 and 14-seater matatus by substituting with buses with larger capacities.
We need to use public transport often instead of self-driving. Walking and cycling are environmentally friendly and healthy. The only problem is the lack of designated cycling paths putting the lives of cyclists and pedestrians in danger.
The congestion in major towns causing massive traffic jams is brought about by the increasing personal cars and small public service vehicles. Instead of having 500 cars each day with just one occupant each, why not hop into a bus, reduce congestion, save time, reduce air pollution, and address global warming.
Waste separation is nowhere in our vocabulary. This is something that we should be doing, starting with the major towns.
You are the reason the environment cannot sustain itself anymore. But again, you are the solution, look deeper, change your ways, influence change.