World Environment Day 2024 is centred on land restoration, halting desertification, and building drought resilience under the theme, “Our land. Our future“. This initiative emphasizes that while we cannot reverse time, we have the capacity to restore forests, rejuvenate water sources, and replenish soils.
To keep global warming below 1.5°C this century, cutting annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 is imperative. If action is not taken, air pollution exposure will increase by 50% within a decade, and plastic waste in aquatic ecosystems will nearly triple by 2040.
Currently, up to 40% of the planet’s land is degraded, directly impacting half of the global population and threatening approximately US$44 trillion of global GDP. Since 2000, the frequency and duration of droughts have risen by 29%, and without urgent measures, droughts could affect over 75% of the world’s population by 2050.
Africa’s Environmental and Sanitation Challenges
In the context of global environmental efforts, Africa faces unique challenges, particularly regarding sanitation practices like open defecation and improper refuse disposal. These practices not only pose significant health risks but also exacerbate environmental degradation.
Open Defecation and Environmental Impact
Open defecation contributes to soil and water contamination, spreads diseases, and adversely affects agricultural productivity. Therefore, it is crucial for African nations to implement widespread sanitation improvements to protect human health and the environment.
Refuse Disposal Practices
The improper disposal of refuse in streets clogs drainage systems, leading to urban flooding and waterborne diseases. It also contributes to the pollution of rivers and oceans, harming marine life and ecosystems. Comprehensive waste management systems must be established and enforced to combat these issues.
Strategies for Improvement
Education and Awareness: It is essential to raise awareness about the health and environmental impacts of poor sanitation practices. Educational campaigns can drive behaviour change and encourage community participation in maintaining clean environments.
Infrastructure Development: It is crucial to invest in sanitation infrastructure, such as public toilets and waste disposal facilities. This includes building and maintaining proper sewage systems to prevent environmental contamination.
Policy Implementation: Governments must enforce policies promoting hygienic practices and proper waste management. This includes regulations to prevent open defecation and ensure regular waste collection and disposal.
Community Engagement: Engaging local communities in developing and implementing sanitation solutions ensures these measures are culturally appropriate and sustainable. Community-led initiatives can be particularly effective in achieving lasting change.
Partnerships and Funding: International partnerships and funding can support African countries in improving sanitation. Collaborating with global organizations can provide the necessary resources and expertise to implement effective solutions.
World Environment Day 2024 highlights the urgent need for global action to restore land, combat desertification, and build drought resilience. Concurrently, Africa must address critical sanitation issues to protect the environment and public health.
By implementing strategic measures, African nations can significantly reduce environmental degradation and contribute to the global effort to create a sustainable future. Effective sanitation practices are a health necessity and a crucial component of environmental stewardship.
Through education, infrastructure development, policy enforcement, community engagement, and international cooperation, Africa can make substantial progress in protecting its environment and ensuring a healthier future for its population.
Key Actions for 2024
Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Establish a framework to achieve a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to 1990 levels by the decade’s end.
Decoupling Economic Growth from Emissions: Since 1990, emissions have dropped by 32.5%, while the economy has grown by nearly 70%.
Promoting Clean Technology: Implementing the Net-Zero Industry Act to expedite clean-tech manufacturing and support European businesses in transitioning to greener practices.
Sustainable Production and Consumption: The Circular Economy Action Plan aims to standardise sustainable products across various sectors, including electronics, textiles, vehicles, construction, and food.
Biodiversity Protection: Expanding on Natura 2000, the largest network of protected natural areas, to safeguard resources and halt the decline of endangered species and habitats.
Addressing Carbon Leakage: The Carbon Border Adjustment mechanism ensures emissions are reduced globally, not just within the EU.
Environmental Hazard Protection: EU regulations guarantee safe drinking water, clean bathing water, improved air quality, reduced noise, and decreased harmful chemical impacts.
Supporting Affected Regions: The EU Solidarity Fund assists areas affected by extreme climate events.
Protecting Vulnerable Workers and Societies: The Just Transition Fund and the Social Climate Fund support communities facing significant challenges adapting to new environmental policies.