Reducing Pollution In Kenya: Strategies For A Greener Future

Kenya is facing a number of environmental challenges, including high levels of outdoor and indoor air pollution, water pollution, and solid waste management issues. Air pollution in Nairobi, the country's capital, consistently exceeds the World Health Organization's (WHO) guideline limits for PM2.5, with road transport being the main source of these emissions. In addition, the country is struggling with the illegal dumping and burning of waste, as well as the use of unclean cooking fuels, particularly in informal settlements. Water pollution in Kenya is also a growing concern, with severe pollution detected in the Kenyan side of Lake Victoria, posing risks to human health and the environment. To address these issues, Kenya has implemented various policies and initiatives, including the Climate Change Act and the National Solid Waste Management Strategy, and has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable waste management.

Reduce vehicle emissions

Kenya's capital, Nairobi, is a major economic and transport hub, with a large population and a high level of traffic. The city's poor air quality is largely due to vehicle emissions, with road transport contributing 40% of the city's PM2.5 concentrations. In addition to private cars, the city's public transport buses, known as matatus, are mostly elderly, second-hand imported vehicles with low fuel efficiency, contributing to the high levels of vehicle emissions.

To reduce vehicle emissions, Kenya has implemented several measures, including mandatory vehicle emission testing to ensure that vehicles meet specified emission standards. This testing is carried out at specialised testing facilities, which measure the levels of pollutants emitted and assess compliance with regulatory limits. Kenya has also banned the import of old trucks, becoming the first country in East Africa to do so, in an effort to reduce emissions and comply with the Transport Climate and Clean Air Coalition's Global Sulphur strategy.

In addition to regulatory measures, Kenya is also investing in modern modes of transport that emit fewer polluting gases. For example, Nairobi has secured financing to develop the first dedicated electric bus rapid transit system in East Africa. The city has also developed an Integrated Urban Development Master Plan (NUIPLAN), which includes actions to improve the quality and environmental performance of road and public transit systems.

Public awareness and education are also key components of Kenya's strategy to reduce vehicle emissions. Government agencies, environmental organisations, and advocacy groups conduct outreach campaigns to inform the public about the health and environmental impacts of vehicle emissions, as well as the benefits of emission-reducing technologies and alternative fuels.

The adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles is also being promoted in Kenya, with hybrid vehicles already making up a significant portion of imported cars. There is also an opportunity for Kenya to import more electric vehicles in the future, particularly as many EU countries have committed to banning the sale of internal combustion engines by 2025-2030. This could result in a greater supply of relatively cheaper second-hand electric vehicles, which could help to reduce vehicle emissions in Kenya.

Improve waste management

Waste management is a significant challenge in Kenya, particularly in its urban centres. The country has long struggled with plastic waste, which often ends up polluting its Indian Ocean coast and lakes. In Nairobi, an estimated 2,400 tons of solid waste is generated every day, with only 45% of it being recycled or reused. Similarly, in Mombasa, the country's second-largest city, 3.7 kilos of plastic per capita end up in bodies of water annually.

To improve waste management in Kenya, the following actions can be taken:

• Development of waste regulations: Kenya has taken steps in this direction by enacting the Waste Management Bill, which aims to reduce short-lived climate pollutants from the waste sector. The government should continue to develop and enforce solid waste regulations at the national and local levels to reduce pollution and promote sustainable waste management practices.
• Promote recycling and reuse: Kenya should focus on increasing its recycling and reuse rates for solid waste. This can be achieved through public education campaigns, incentives for recycling, and partnerships with private companies. For example, the country could offer subsidies or tax breaks to businesses that use recycled materials or develop innovative ways to reduce waste.
• Improve waste collection and transportation: Proper waste collection and transportation systems are essential to ensure waste is disposed of responsibly. The government should invest in waste management infrastructure, such as designated collection points, efficient transportation systems, and adequate disposal facilities. This includes providing adequate resources for waste management staff and ensuring regular collection services.
• Address illegal dumping: Illegal dumping is a significant issue in Kenya, with a large proportion of waste being disposed of improperly. The government should enforce laws and regulations against illegal dumping, such as the recent law penalising public waste disposal without authorisation. Additionally, efforts should be made to educate the public about the negative impacts of illegal dumping and the importance of proper waste disposal.
• Invest in waste-to-energy technologies: Waste-to-energy technologies can help reduce waste volumes and generate clean energy. Kenya could explore options such as incineration, pyrolysis, and anaerobic digestion to convert waste into usable energy, reducing the country's reliance on fossil fuels and non-sustainable biomass fuels.
• Promote source reduction: Source reduction, also known as waste prevention, is the practice of reducing waste generation at the source. Kenya should encourage businesses and consumers to minimise waste production by promoting sustainable production and consumption practices. This can include initiatives such as product redesign, waste minimisation in manufacturing processes, and public awareness campaigns on reducing, reusing, and recycling.

Improve water quality

Water quality is a significant issue in Kenya, with 15 million Kenyans lacking access to safe water. Climate change, population growth, urbanisation, water pollution, and poor management of water resources have all contributed to the country's water crisis. Here are some ways to improve water quality in Kenya:

• Addressing water pollution sources: Agricultural runoff, industrial discharge, and inadequate sanitation facilities are the main sources of water pollution in Kenya. By implementing better agricultural practices, enforcing stricter regulations on industrial waste, and improving access to sanitation facilities, the contamination of water sources can be reduced.
• Protecting water sources: Kenya's water sources are vulnerable to contamination due to their low replenishment rates. The government should focus on preserving and protecting these sources by enforcing regulations and guidelines, such as the Kenya Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA) and the Water Act (2016).
• Improving water infrastructure: Inadequate infrastructure, including wells, boreholes, and water treatment facilities, makes it difficult for people, especially in rural areas, to access clean and safe drinking water. Investing in water infrastructure development and maintenance can improve access to safe drinking water.
• Promoting water conservation: With increasing water demand due to population growth, water conservation practices become crucial. Educating the public about water-saving technologies and efficient water pricing mechanisms can help reduce water consumption and preserve water sources.
• Increasing access to safe drinking water: Currently, only 59% of Kenyans have access to safe drinking water. The government should prioritise providing safe drinking water to all citizens, especially in rural and urban slum areas, by investing in piped water infrastructure and improving water delivery systems.
• Encouraging community involvement: Community participation is essential in improving water quality. Initiatives such as open defecation-free certifications and community education on safe sanitation practices can help reduce water contamination and improve overall water quality.
• Strengthening policies and regulations: While Kenya has developed policies and regulations such as the Water Quality Regulations (2006), effective implementation and enforcement are crucial. The government should ensure compliance with water quality standards and address gaps in existing policies to guarantee access to safe drinking water for all.
• Collaborating with stakeholders: Collaboration between government, donors, civil society, and international organisations is vital to addressing the water crisis. By working together and leveraging resources, knowledge, and expertise, more effective solutions can be developed and implemented to improve water quality.

Improve soil quality

Soil pollution in Kenya is a pressing issue, with an estimated one-sixth of the country's arable land contaminated by pollutants. The presence of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in the environment poses risks of cancer and other diseases. Additionally, soil degradation, including erosion and nutrient depletion, undermines agricultural livelihoods and contributes to rural out-migration.

To improve soil quality in Kenya, the following measures can be implemented:

• Soil Conservation and Management: Implement soil conservation practices such as contour plowing, terracing, and mulching to prevent soil erosion. Encourage the use of cover crops, crop rotation, and mixed cropping to improve soil health and structure.
• Fertilizer and Nutrient Management: Promote the use of organic fertilizers, such as manure and compost, to enhance soil fertility and structure. Optimize the use of chemical fertilizers by conducting soil tests to determine the specific nutrient requirements of crops.
• Integrated Pest Management: Reduce the use of pesticides and agrochemicals, which are major contributors to soil pollution. Adopt integrated pest management practices, such as biological control, crop sanitation, and cultural practices, to minimize pesticide use while effectively managing pests.
• Soil Monitoring and Mapping: Establish a comprehensive soil monitoring program to regularly assess soil health, identify contaminated areas, and determine the extent of pollution. Create detailed soil maps to guide land use planning and inform farmers about the specific characteristics of their soils.
• Agroforestry and Tree Planting: Encourage the integration of trees and shrubs into farming systems through agroforestry practices. Tree roots can help improve soil structure, enhance nutrient cycling, and reduce erosion.
• Education and Extension Services: Provide farmers with training and extension services on sustainable soil management practices, such as conservation agriculture, precision farming, and soil health improvement techniques.
• Policy and Regulatory Framework: Strengthen policies and regulations to protect soil resources and promote sustainable land management practices. Enforce regulations on pesticide use, proper waste disposal, and pollution prevention to minimize soil contamination.
• Collaboration and Collective Action: Foster collaboration between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local communities to address soil pollution. Encourage collective action among farmers to share knowledge and implement sustainable soil management practices.

By implementing these measures, Kenya can improve soil quality, enhance agricultural productivity, and ensure the long-term sustainability of its land resources.

Reduce indoor air pollution

Air pollution is a serious issue in Kenya, with the country suffering from high levels of both outdoor and indoor air pollution. While outdoor air pollution in Nairobi has received a lot of attention due to its excessive levels, indoor air pollution is equally detrimental to people's health. Here are some ways to reduce indoor air pollution in Kenya:

Improve Ventilation

Ventilation is crucial to promoting healthy indoor air. Opening windows, when possible, is an easy way to encourage a good exchange of indoor and outdoor air. However, it is important to consider the outdoor air quality and avoid opening windows when the pollen count is high or when there is a lot of outdoor air pollution. Ensuring proper ventilation in the entire house, office, or car is essential to maintaining a free flow of fresh air and preventing the accumulation of pollutants indoors.

No Smoking

Smoking indoors has severe consequences for indoor air quality. Secondhand smoke is responsible for respiratory issues and even lung cancer deaths in non-smokers. It is imperative to ban smoking indoors, including cigarettes and electronic cigarettes, to protect the health of all occupants, especially children and individuals with chronic heart and lung problems. Quitting smoking is the best solution for overall health, but if that is not possible, smoking outdoors is a better alternative.

Reduce Allergens

Allergens such as pet dander, dust mites, mould spores, and pollen can contribute significantly to indoor air pollution. To mitigate this, it is recommended to bathe pets regularly and wash their bedding to reduce allergy-causing dander. Keeping pets out of bedrooms can also help reduce allergen exposure. Additionally, establishing a shoes-off policy at the door can prevent outdoor pollutants, chemicals, and allergens from being tracked into the house.

Use Exhaust Fans

Installing and using exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom can help remove cooking fumes and steam, respectively. Ensuring that the dryer vents to the outside is also essential to minimising lint accumulation. Exhaust fans play a vital role in maintaining good indoor air quality by removing pollutants and reducing humidity, which can promote the growth of mould and mildew.

Avoid Air Fresheners and Scented Candles

Artificial fragrances, including air fresheners and scented candles, can trigger asthma and worsen indoor air quality. Instead of masking odours, it is advisable to find and eliminate the source of the odours. Cleaning with homemade products, such as a mixture of white vinegar and water, or using natural essential oils, can help improve indoor air quality without introducing additional pollutants.

Regular Cleaning and Dusting

Thorough cleaning and dusting using environmentally friendly detergents or equipment can significantly improve indoor air quality. It is important to pay attention to surfaces that accumulate dust and allergens, such as carpets and bedding. Washing bedding weekly in hot water helps remove suspended toxic particles and improves air quality. Additionally, using a microfiber dusting cloth can capture more dust than a cotton rag, reducing the amount of airborne particles.

Choose Natural Cleaning Products

Conventional household cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the respiratory system and skin. Opting for natural cleaning supplies or making homemade cleaners with simple ingredients like baking soda can reduce indoor air pollution and minimise potential health risks.

Implement Houseplants

Plants are a natural and aesthetically pleasing way to purify indoor air. Certain plants, such as English ivy, spider plants, Boston ferns, and peace lilies, are known for their air-purifying properties. They help remove toxins from the air without producing noise, providing a quiet and natural solution to improve indoor air quality.

Frequently asked questions