Today, 5^th June marks World Environment Day. This flagship campaign started in 1974. The main goal is to create awareness on environmental issues from pollution, both on land and marine habitats, to the state of global species, both plants and animals and even bacteria and fungi.

We live together on this earth with other species. We are part of the environment not out of it. The environment does not depend on us; we depend on it more than we think we do. We should seek to take care of the earth as it will reciprocate and take care of us.

Living with nature has its benefits. On a normal day, I wake up to Mother Nature. In the distance, I can hear a Montane Nightjar call. Sometimes, the male cicadas are still chirping and clicking away oblivious other inhabitants. Watching the sunrise as I head off in the early morning is always an amazing view. The hue of the orange/red color as the sun cuts through the clouds on most cold mornings can instantly warm you up. The fresh air that one gets is enough to energize someone and set the pace for the day.

On occasion, when I’m fortunate enough to use Magadi Road which borders Nairobi National Park on the Western Side, my mind drifts off to the wildlife that lives within the park right next to a bustling and ever-growing Nairobi city. The peace that they have right now, how long will it last? Nairobi National Park is a gem. Having being brought up in/ around the city, I cherish the serenity of nature that lies so near.

Unfortunately, the looming Standard Gauge Railway recently labeled the ‘Madaraka Express’, will have a long-term negative impact on the ecosystem and surroundings of Nairobi National Park. This is not to say I’m against development. In fact, I’m pro development, so long as the environment is also considered in all development project and not looked over as trivial.

The SGR isn’t the only impending danger facing Nairobi National Park. As we continue to develop and the human population increases, people will need a place to stay and an easier access to basic needs and resources. For Instance, when, eventually, Magadi Road is expanded due to an increase in population growth in Kajiado North, will the State consider cutting through the park again as was done while constructing the Southern Bypass? A fight to protect Nairobi National Park NOW will set a strong footing to protect her from imminent threats, not only from other developmental projects but also from individuals; land grabbers. Let us continue to #SaveNairobiNationalPark #SaveNNP

Saving Nairobi National Park

As Ngong Road also expands, Ngong Road Forest, another vital green space in Nairobi, could be under threat. On one side of the road is a thriving business of furniture while on the other side is Ngong Road Forest. There is always a connection between environmental issues and the conditions of poverty, hunger, and in general unemployment. In this situation, most would prefer cutting a part of the forest to protect the jobs created through the furniture business, while others would prefer relocating the Furniture business and protect the forest.

Waste management is also an environmental issue affecting most of Kenya in the urban areas. However, this and all other issues can be resolved by political goodwill with an added advantage of innovation. As we have elections this year, choosing whom to put in a public seat is something to think about earnestly.

Have you read Why politicians Should Consider Environmental Conservation in their Agenda?

This and many other environmental issues are affecting the country. As we celebrate World Environmental Day 2017, let us give gratitude and recognize everyone who is making an effort to protect the environment. It is also a time to think about what you can do for the environment, not only today but from now onwards.

How better can you live and consider the environment as you make each decision in your daily life? Will these decisions affect the next generation in a negative or positive way? Will you leave an impact worth praise or discernment? Will you be able to enjoy environmental services offered now years later?

Just as all other species have a role to play in the environment, we, being part of this earth, also have a purpose. A purpose to protect what we have. Therefore, plant more trees, more than your age or even twice your age, watch and make necessary changes on your solid waste creation, join/create active groups that are pro-environmental protection, become a citizen scientist, volunteer, teach others/write/sing/advocate about the significance of our earth and of more importance; BE AN EXAMPLE.

Remember, you too can make a difference

The coming generations will either have two questions to ask; “What were you thinking? Why didn’t you act?” or will they say, “How did you get the courage to rise and speak at a time when others said it was impossible?” Hopefully, they will ask the latter.

I Am With Nature.

Featured Image source.