Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-04-07 11:47:17
Earth Day is a global celebration that unites over 1 billion people from 193 countries in support of environmental protection. Coordinated by Earthday.org, Earth Day engages individuals in various environmental campaigns to raise awareness and advocate for the future of our planet. This year’s theme, “Planet vs Plastics,” focuses on ending plastic pollution by demanding a 60 percent reduction in plastic production by 2040 for the health of both humans and the planet.
As Earth Day approaches, there is a plea for Mr. President Yoweri Museveni to declare April 22 a national holiday in Uganda dedicated to a large-scale plastic clean-up effort. This initiative signifies a commitment to environmental stewardship and takes a crucial step towards a cleaner and healthier Uganda. Plastic pollution has become a significant threat to the nation’s natural beauty and ecological balance, affecting waterways, agricultural lands, and ecosystems. Despite existing legislation, enforcement remains a challenge, leaving the environment vulnerable to degradation.
A comprehensive strategy is needed to address plastic pollution effectively, including stricter enforcement of regulations, improved waste management infrastructure, and public education campaigns. A National Plastic Clean-Up Day would act as a catalyst for these efforts, bringing communities together to eliminate plastic waste. Inspired by Rwanda’s successful “Umuganda” program, a Ugandan version called “Obumwe” is proposed to promote unity and inclusivity, with regional variations to ensure all communities can participate meaningfully.
In addition to clean-up efforts, bolstering NEMA and local authorities with resources and capacity is essential for effective enforcement. A legislative review is necessary to strengthen laws governing the plastic lifecycle and implementing Extended Producer Responsibility schemes to encourage cleaner production practices and sustainable alternatives.
This is a call to action for all Ugandans to combat plastic pollution and create a cleaner, greener future for generations to come. It is an opportunity for President Museveni to leave a remarkable legacy as a leader who championed environmental consciousness, ended the plague of plastic pollution, and created a healthier environment for future generations. Declaring April 22 National Plastic Clean-Up Day would signify Uganda’s commitment to a plastic-free nation by 2030.
Together, as a united Uganda, the ambitious goal of a plastic-free nation can be achieved. Nelson Byanyima, Founder of Green Lens International and a leader in the African Climate Reality Project, invites President Museveni to take this bold step towards a cleaner, greener future for Uganda.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
