Nakuru County, Kenya, is investing in waste recycling to address climate change and enhance public health. The County Executive Committee Member for Water, Environment, Energy and Natural Resources, Dr. Nelson Maara, announced that the county is transforming waste disposal sites and sewage treatment facilities into valuable resources and centers for sustainable innovation.
In collaboration with local businesses and organizations, the county aims to convert waste into eco-friendly products, including construction materials and household items. A notable initiative is NAWASCOAL, a county-owned entity that produces fuel briquettes from waste materials, operating a plant in Kaloleni, Nakuru-Town East Sub-County. This project exemplifies a circular economy model focused on waste reduction, reuse, and recycling.
Dr. Maara highlighted that improved waste collection methods have enhanced sanitation in urban and rural areas, utilizing chemicals to minimize odors and facilitate easier waste collection. This initiative has also created employment opportunities for local youth involved in waste collection and briquette sales.
The CECM noted that effective waste management could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from waste decomposition in landfills, thereby lessening environmental degradation. He encouraged residents and businesses to practice recycling and reusing materials to promote public well-being.
Additionally, the county is collaborating with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to discourage the use of non-environmentally friendly materials, urging innovators to develop advanced methods for environmental conservation and sewage management in densely populated areas.