1 July 2009
editorial
FOR most ordinary folks in Zambia, talk about environmental issues is as remote and disinteresting as debating rocket science and most will just respond with blank stares whenever such a topic is brought up.
Many know little or nothing and are unaware that the impact of environmental mismanagement is already being felt either indirectly or directly.
For example, ignorant charcoal burners will chop trees indiscriminately and sell to their equally ignorant clients who use it for energy in most low-income households in urban and peri-urban areas.
They will not realise the negative effects of deforestation although they will probably complain about the increased occurrence of drought especially in recent years.
This is but one example of environmental mismanagement and unsustainable use of natural resources that is practiced, but there are many examples where large corporations knowingly damage the environment just for economic enrichment.
Fortunately, there is growing awareness among many countries and Zambia has not been left out in the knowledge that development needs to be managed in such a way that it protects the environment and natural resources are used in a sustainable manner.
Hopefully, the launch of the Environmental Policy yesterday will further fertilise the interventions that the Government and other stakeholders are already implementing.
But as noted by President Rupiah Banda, such interventions need to be carried out in a holistic manner and that both the Government and private sector should work hand-in-hand.
For example, this means that for any new business to operate, the Environmental Council of Zambia (ECZ) and other related institutions such as the councils must remain vigilant and ensure that a satisfactory Environmental Impact Assessment report is provided.
For companies that may have already damaged the environs where they operate, mitigatory factors must be taken by the culprits and there must be no sacred cow.
But to achieve this, there must be a deliberate and well-thought out campaign to educate and sensitise the public so that they are aware and help in preventing damage.
In the past, many good policies have been launched but implementation has been disappointing and it is hoped that this one will be executed with vigour.
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Glad to see that environmental issues are being addressed in Zambia. But don't just talk about poor people who need charcoal in order to cook and survive. How about talking about the mine company owners, many of whom are foreigners, raping the land by strip mining and pouring chemicals and other toxins into the watershed. Why can't the government regulate them or provide poor people with solar cookers or other environmental options.