Are we investing enough to save our planet? 

Different countries globally are currently working towards achieving socio-economic development, particularly now as we seek to overcome the impact of Covid-19 pandemic.

On the other hand, they are struggling with imminent threats from the effects of climate change. This is because they recognise that development goals must incorporate critical tenets of sustainability, for a clean and healthy planet. 

In recent years, governments, businesses and citizens have raised and addressed concerns about the environment. Some have gone a step ahead and adopted environmentally friendly lifestyles. These efforts are commendable. 

A quick glance through commitments and efforts towards climate change mitigation over the years,  gives a general feeling of enthusiasm and huge ambitions towards protecting our planet. 

During the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (also known as Rio+20) held in 2012, governments agreed to frame the green economy as an important tool for sustainable development, whilst maintaining healthy functioning of the earth’s ecosystems.  

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which were developed in 2015 and came into force in 2016, also call for enhanced partnerships to achieve the goals. In 2020, the world marked the beginning of the last decade in the realisation of the SDGs. While real progress has been made, action to meet the SDGs is not advancing at the required speed.  

In 2021, governments made bold commitments towards climate change mitigation, during COP26 held in Glasgow, UK. 

Countries pledged to halt and reverse deforestation and land degradation by 2030; slash methane emissions by 30 per cent; United States and China-the world’s top emitters of greenhouse gases, agreed to boost cooperation on combating climate change; some countries promised to increase funding to help developing countries cut their emissions and more than 450 banks, insurers and pension funds that collectively manage $130 trillion committed to use their funds to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. 

Even with these commitments, the question remains, are we making progress?   Last week, the world commemorated World Earth Day, albeit quietly. The theme for this year was “Invest in Our Planet,” and centered on building healthy cities, countries and economies. 

Natural occurrences across the world, however, tell a different story. Extreme weather, rising global temperatures, dwindling crops and some disasters are a sign that we are already experiencing the effects of climate change. Experts have blamed the recent floods in South Africa, that killed about 450 people and made thousands homeless, on climate change. 

We can reverse this trend by taking action both individually and collectively. Citizens can use their influence to drive change and make an impact. On the other hand, the business community needs to transition to green growth practices and nations must take action on their various commitments with regard to climate change mitigation.  

In Kenya, manufacturers appreciate that green manufacturing is a key prerequisite in driving competitiveness. This is particularly important now, as we position ourselves to take advantage of opportunities presented by various trade agreements because consumers are now driving the sustainability agenda – they demand that businesses bear responsibility, through sustainable production. 

 Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) has been at the forefront of championing sustainability in our business, through our Centre for Green Growth and Climate Change. We are encouraging local manufacturers to adopt comprehensive national green growth strategies aimed at reducing their environmental footprints and turn them into competitive advantage. 

 Our efforts for a globally competitive manufacturing sector can only bear fruit, if the country reaffirms its commitment to build, create, add value, and take pride in our local industries, as well as embrace the emerging trends of green sustainable manufacturing. 

 Cultivating sustainable and green practices helps  firms become more efficient, competitive, and profitable. It is more than simply “a good thing to do.” Beyond Earth Day 2022, it is critical that we increase investments to save our planet.  

 —The writer is the Chief Executive of Kenya Association of Manufacturers —[email protected]