The Ministry of Education has been challenged to introduce recycling of plastic waste materials as part of the Competence Based Curriculum for a positive environmental action.
Stakeholders at the ceremony to mark the World Environmental Day at Kibabii University in Bungoma said recycling of the plastic wastes calls for self discipline which should be instilled in children in their early ages.
H.E Tesie Musalia, wife of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said despite the ban on use of plastic materials in Kenya in 2017, 15 per cent of the population was yet to respond to this directive.
“Some people have not changed from irresponsible disposal of plastic materials. They still wait to be followed up by the police and other enforcement agencies to adhere to the law,” said H.E Musalia.
Ahadi Trust Kenya managing director Stanley Kamau said Kenyan schools need to take up the initiative of recycling plastics and other materials that pollute the environment to promote a clean environment in the coming years.
“Carrying a plastic bottle for save disposal is a great way to conserve the environment. Let us encourage pupils to carry their bottles to save disposal as part of their routine. This will help to keep our environment clean,” said Mr. Kamau.
The use of plastic carrier bags in Bungoma is 15 per cent.
Governor Kenneth Lusaka said efforts to attain 100 per cent were hindered by the county’s proximity to the neighbouring Uganda which has not banned the use of plastic material.
“As a county, we have formulated climate change, solid waste and management Acts to ensure a clean environment. We have also put in place climate change committees in all the wards to address the impact of climate change,” said Governor Lusaka.
A total of 20,000 tree seedlings were planted in Bungoma to mark the day.
Lusaka said Bungoma County plants 600,000 million seedlings annually in efforts to contribute to the 15 billion tree target set by President William Ruto.
He said the county’s tree cover has gone up from 7.9 per cent in 2016 to 20 per cent in 2023.
