Eight environment victories you may have missed this year

A delegate signs on the Climate Solutions commitment board during the Africa Climate Summit at KICC on September 16, 2023. [David Gichuru, Standard]

Kenya's emphasis on geothermal, hydro, and wind energy positions it as a leader in the transition to renewable sources, contributing significantly to the global effort to reduce carbon emissions.

The global green energy meeting served as a platform for international collaboration, allowing Kenya to showcase its achievements, share best practices, and explore new opportunities in the renewable energy sector.

7. Hosted intergovernmental negations on plastic pollution

The third session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-3) was hosted from November 13-19 in Nairobi, which achieved a significant milestone in the global effort to combat plastic pollution.

The conference, which hosted more than 1,900 delegates representing 161 Members and over 318 observer organizations, saw unanimous agreement on a starting point for negotiations at the fourth session (INC-4).

Delegates extensively discussed the Chair's Zero Draft, a crucial document outlining the initial framework for the international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution. This laid the foundation for subsequent negotiations.

A meticulous compilation of text incorporating diverse views from Member States was undertaken. The goal was to ensure inclusivity and representation of varied perspectives in the evolving instrument. A validated, co-facilitator merged text was prepared, providing a consolidated framework.

Members successfully addressed pending issues that had not been discussed in previous sessions, showcasing a commitment to overcoming challenges and progressing toward a comprehensive solution.

Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), expressed optimism about the negotiations, acknowledging the determination of the Chair and Members to steer the process towards a treaty that addresses plastic pollution comprehensively.

8. Kenyan scientist elected as vice chair of the global Climate panel

Dr Cromwel Lukorito, a senior lecturer at the Department of Earth and Climate Sciences, University of Nairobi, has been elected as the Vice Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Working Group II.

The election results were announced on June 28 with Dr Lukorito securing a substantial 101 votes, defeating Sudan's candidate Hana Hamadala, who garnered 44 votes.

These breakthroughs in environmental and climate actions in 2023 reflected a nation committed to sustainable development, experts indicated that the strides made in tree planting, international summits, academic research, financial commitments, and renewable energy position Kenya as a leader in the global fight against climate change.