The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) wants schools to teach waste management. The goal is to help children develop responsible habits from an early age.
George Oyoo, NEMA’s Taita Taveta county director, said teaching learners about waste will build a culture of environmental responsibility. It will also support sustainable waste management efforts.
He spoke during a visit to the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in Chakareli. The facility was set up with support from the European Union through UN-Habitat and the county government. Oyoo said waste separation must start at home.
He also encouraged communities to see waste as an economic opportunity. “For waste management to succeed, children must learn that separation starts at home. We also want women, youth, and other groups to see waste as a source of income,” he said.
The Chakareli MRF has reduced illegal dumping, which harms the environment and public health. Oyoo explained that the government now focuses on awareness and solutions rather than only prosecuting offenders.
“Taking people to court was not enough. Sustainability comes from awareness and proper disposal facilities. The MRF has helped reduce illegal dumpsites,” he said.
Oyoo urged residents to sort waste into plastics, biodegradable materials, and glass. He added that households could earn money from treating waste as a resource, similar to farming.
By including waste management in schools and raising community awareness, NEMA aims to create a generation that values the environment and sees waste as an opportunity.
