Everyone everywhere is talking about sustainable development. Kenyan primary schools have introduced a subject on environmental studies. High schools have also introduced environmental studies to their curriculum. Environmental degradation has become a point of global concern. Persons all over are being advised on best ways to avoid further environmental degradation as well as rehabilitating it back to its pristine condition. This is much of a herculean task but even the least of efforts will certainly go along way in environmental conservation.

Walking in the streets of Nairobi, which is more or less of a concrete jungle, you can not help but notice the noisy environment as well as the smoky air drifting past your nostrils. The build environment has also contributed to the increased temperatures as concrete has a higher reflective index as compared to grass or bare ground. The buildings and concrete pavements have led to development urban heat islands.

There is a huge difference between Nairobi City and say, the suburbs in Muthaiga and Gigiri area. Being in the two points in one day would have you confused to being in two different tropics all together. The air in Gigiri is so fresh; it spells countryside, the surrounding is so clean and the general environment totally serene. It is so unlike the known “Nairobi” character

Trying to make the town similar to Gigiri is practically impossible. However a few things could be done to at least ameliorate the living conditions from an environmental perspective. It is encouraging to note that the City Council of Nairobi has put its foot forward in fighting the degradation menace. From the litter bins put all over town to the strict implementation of laws against littering the town. However, we have a bigger role to play as individuals. We ought to take this as a personal initiative and try to safeguard our environment to the best of our ability.

Carbon sinks should e encouraged. These help to decongest the air by absorbing emitted carbons. As we all know all plants and trees use up carbon dioxide to synthesize their food in the presence of light. Carbon sinks otherwise referred to as open spaces help to absorb carbon dioxide in the air thus creating a more “fresh and clean” air effect.

The City Council should also come up with better ways to handle generated solid waste especially in the town area. For instance the Wakulima market on Haile Selassie Avenue is an absolute eyesore. The area reeks of rotten materials which are disposed just slightly off the highway. This in itself poses a huge health risk as contractible diseases such as typhoid and cholera thrive in such areas. The strong odour inhibits walkability along that section of the road.

Kudos to the council for beautifying the town. The flowing fountains are my personal best. They depict life and concern to the environment. If we play our own little roles we will not only achieve an environmentally sound town but will also ensure that the future generations also get to enjoy Mother Nature’s resources.

Article source: https://www.zakenya.com/Environment/130-As-clean-as-Nairobi-can-get.html