WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY 2020

This year, the African continent and the entire world has witnessed an environmental crisis, ranging from the ongoing locust invasion in the horn of Africa, the Australian bushfires, cyclones and floods, wildfires ravaging tropical rainforests and many countries grappling with the Coronavirus pandemic. All these calamities are a proof that human health is linked to the planet’s health.

Don Bosco Tech Africa (DBTech Africa) through its Green TVET Pillar has been upfront in providing solutions to mitigate some of these pressing environmental challenges. With one million species facing extinction, there has never been a more important time to focus on biodiversity.

On June 3 – June 5, 2020, the Don Bosco TVET centres’ Green Clubs participated in a number of activities in a bid to raise awareness on biodiversity conservation and other environmental matters. The activities included; tree planting initiatives, online conservation campaigns, online competition, games and quizzes.

The climax of these activities was the celebration of World Environment Day on June 5, 2020, which provided an opportunity to rethink how our socio-economic systems have evolved and the impact they have on the environment. This year’s theme was ‘Time for Nature’ (celebrating biodiversity)- a concern that is both urgent and existential.

DBTech Africa joined the rest of the world on Friday June 5, 2020 in marking this day by hosting a Live Webinar to discuss “The impact of Covid-19 on Biodiversity and the role of virtual space in Biodiversity conservation.” The event was graced by DBTech Africa Executive Director, Fr. George Tharaniyil who reiterated the importance of protecting Our Common Home. The meeting was moderated by DBTA Deputy Director Br. John Njuguna, and brought together participants from Africa-Madagascar region.

In his presentation, Mr Jack Omondi, DBTA Green Pillar Project Officer noted that Green TVET has gained momentum, and Don Bosco TVET centres are currently implementing the following interventions;

• Promoting conservation of existing biodiversity by establishing tree nurseries and planting indigenous species which are at a threat to extinction through overexploitation.
• Increasing awareness of biodiversity and environmental issues, through Scientific research and improved communication of scientific results. DBTA mobile teams are currently creating awareness on water and wastewater management, waste management, biogas and solar energy.
• Encouraging use renewable energy sources: solar and biogas energy are essential in conserving and preserving biodiversity.
• Promoting the conservation and sustainable use of water resources which are directly linked to biodiversity conservation.
• Reducing the impacts of Agriculture on biodiversity by encouraging the use of innovative techniques to increase productivity and yields and improve food security; and adopting conservation agriculture or “eco-agriculture” approaches).