Connect with us

Hi, what are you looking for?

top

Kenya

Environmental crime a threat to resources, security

While most of this loss can be attributed to illegal hunting, the underlying factor of this loss of our natural heritage is land use change, leading to the transformation of wildlife habitat into human settlements, cultivation and pasture for livestock.

Our biggest challenge therefore is to find models that tackle the underlying causes of such change in order to maintain wildlife habitat in the face of population and economic growth.

Wakhungu re-affirmed of Kenya’s commitment to ensuring that her biodiversity is accorded the highest level of protection.

“Although the destruction of ivory and rhino horn will not in itself put an end to the illegal trade in these items, it demonstrates Kenya’s commitment to seeking a total global ban in the trade of ivory and rhino horn,” said the Cabinet Secretary.

The UNEP report further recommends increase in financial support that is of equal measure with the serious threat environmental crime poses to sustainable development; and economic incentives and alternative livelihoods for those at the bottom of the environmental crime chain, such as poachers.

As well as strong action, legislation and sanctions at national and international level, including measures targeted at disrupting overseas tax havens.

“We are all aware the world faces challenges in preserving natural heritage and biological diversity, which is seriously affected by the illegal trade in wildlife,” said Steiner, “The joy of future generations relies on actions taken today.

About The Author

Pages: 1 2

Comments
Advertisement

More on Capital News