September 2020 is the fifth anniversary of the launch of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations. The SDGs are the actions set for achieving a better and more sustainable future for all. On Wednesday, September 16th, 2020, Jane Mich (Bachelor of Business Science: Financial Engineering – 3rd year) and Cynthia Mueni (Bachelor of Business Science: Actuarial Sciences – 3rd year) engaged their audience on the 13th SDG that addresses “Climate Action”. The duo founded the “Kenya Safi initiative” that aims at educating many on climate change and environmental degradation.

What is Environmental Sustainability?

According to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), environmental sustainability is acting indefinitely in ways that ensure future generations have the natural resources available to live an equal, if not better, way of life than current generations. It also covers aspects that influence the well-being of humans such as clean air, clean water, and natural habitats. Since countries differ economically and socially, there is no defined outline of what is right or wrong when it comes to sustainability practices. Each country has to work on its reliable policies to ensure that sustainable buildouts are carried out as a global goal. Some of the common spheres the countries have considered include long term protection of air, water, soil, plants, and animal habitats. Other additional areas are the disposal of hazardous waste and the control of greenhouse gas emissions.

How can we revive the planet that supports us all? 

Firstly, focus on replacing the lost resources. For example, planting trees and protecting natural habitats.  Secondly, commissioning global drifts by informing groups and individuals about restoration opportunities in their area so they can join the current initiatives, or start their own. Thirdly, empowering the young generation. Being informed will turn our children into Wangari Maathai’s ambassadors who are not only knowledgeable but also proud to be part of positive change. Fourthly, fund research that supports environmental stability. The availability of data will help us identify the best practices to restore our planet gradually. Lastly, let us aim to live the heritage of reviving and restoring our home. Healing the planet is a universal challenge so let’s spread the word around whether through tales, music, movies, or even open forum debates.

We are all responsible for interacting with the planet to maintain natural resources without hindering the ability of future generations to meet their needs. As Wangari Maathai puts it “Education, if it means anything, should not take people away from the land, but instill in them even more respect for it because educated people are in a position to understand what is being lost. The future of the planet concerns all of us, and all of us should do what we can to protect it…you do not need a diploma to plant a tree”.

 

This article was written by Annete Karanja.

 

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