Environmental Literacy Notes 045336

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Environmental Literacy Notes
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ENVIRONMENTAL LITERACY NOTES

SUMMARY OF LEARNING OUTCOME
1. CONTROL ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS
Purpose and content of EMCA 1999
Storage of environmentally hazardous material
Disposal methods of hazardous waste
Types and uses of PPEs
Occupational safety and health
2. Control of environmental pollution
Types of pollution
Pollution control
Types of solid waste
Procedures for solid waste management
3. Demonstrate sustainable resource use
Types of resources
Methods of minimizing wastage
Waste management procedures
Classification of waste
Principles of 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle)
4. Identify environmental legislation/conventions
Environmental concerns
Environmental legislation
Industrial standards
International environmental protocols (montreal, kyoto)
Features of an environmental strategy
5. Implementation of environmental specific programs
Community needs and expectation
5S of good house keeping
Identification of programs
Setting individual roles
Resolving problems
Consultation with stake holders
6. Monitor activities on environmental protection/programs
Periodic monitoring and evaluation
Gathering feedback from stakeholders
Documentation of recommendation
Monitoring and reporting of environmental incidents
7. Analyze resource use
Identification of resource consuming process
Determination of quantity and nature of resource consumed
8. Develop resource conservation plan
Determination of efficiency of use/conservation of resources
Causes of low efficiency of use of resources
Plan for increasing the efficiency of resource use

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UNIT ONE
Definition
Environmental literacy
environment
the surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates
What are 3 types of environments?

There are three types of Environment
 Natural environment.
 Human environment.
 Physical environment
Is an individual’s understanding, skills and motivation to make responsible decisions that considers his
or her relationships to natural systems, communities and future generations.
Environmental Literacy is the desired outcome of environmental education which strives to provide
learners with:
 Sound scientific information

 Skills for critical thinking
 Creative and strategic problem solving
 Decision-making
CONTROL ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS

Environmental hazards are defined as extreme events or substances in the Earth and its ecological
system that may cause adverse consequences for humans and things they value. These include
geophysical and meteorological phenomena such as earthquakes and droughts
Introduction to EMCA 1999 cap 387
The Environmental Management and Coordination Act, 1999, was amended to comply with the
Constitution and integrate emerging environmental issues. The Environmental Management and
Coordination (Amendment) Act (EMCA) provides the framework law for environmental conservation,
management and coordination. Through EMCA, the government has attempted to harmonize policy
regulations for the management of natural resources in Kenya. The EMCA provides for the protection
of forests and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of forestry related developments.
II. Institutions established under EMCA
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 National Environmental Management Authority

National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) is to exercise general supervision and co-
ordination over all matters relating to the environment and to be the principal instrument of
Government in the implementation of all policies relating to the environment
 National Environmental Complaints Committee,

provides the administrative mechanism for addressing environmental harm
 National Environmental council
responsible for policy formulation and directions for the purposes of the Act. The Council also sets
national goals and objectives, and determines policies and priorities for the protection of the
environment.
 National Environment Action Plan Committees and;
The National Environment Action Plan Committee shall, after every five years, prepare a national
environment action plan for consideration and adoption by the National Assembly.
 County Environment Committees.
be responsible for the proper management of the environment within the county or district in respect of
which they are appointed;
Storage of environmentally hazardous materials
Proper storage and handling of hazardous waste containers is an

important practice that not only promotes a safe work environment,
but also ensures you’re following legislative requirements.
In addition to understanding and following all federal, provincial and

municipal hazardous waste legislation, here are 8 tips to help you
safely store and handle your waste:
1. Prominently display weather-resistant labels that indicate the

name of the hazardous waste.
2. Use sealable containers that prevent release of contents and prevent other substances from
entering the containers.
3. Use storage containers that are compatible with the type of waste stored
4. Are made of durable, weather- and corrosion resistant materials.
5. Ensure wastes are stored in an area that is inaccessible to unauthorized persons, clearly
identified as a hazardous waste storage area, and designed to prevent secondary containment.
6. Limit the amount of hazardous waste on-site by continually monitoring your hazardous waste
volume.

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7. Ensure all employees are adequately trained on the handling and storage of your hazardous
waste. This should include emergency response training.
8. Keep your hazardous waste contingency plan up-to-date, including current contact information
for the facility owners or operators as well as procedures to follow in the event of an emergency
9.
Assignnment: Discuss DISPOSAL METHODS FOR HAZARDOUS WASTE
TYPES AND USES OF PPEs IN LINE WITH ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS
I. Head protection
Wearing PPE for head protection will help you avoid any harm that may come to you from falling
materials or swinging objects. Moreover, the head protectors are designed to protect you from knocking
against stationary objects. Some kinds of head protection equipment (e.g. caps and hair nets) can even
protect against entanglement or scalping on machinery.
Examples of head protection equipment:
 Helmets;
 Hard hats;
 Bump Caps;
 Guards;
Examples of activities where you may need head protection:
 Workplace related: construction or building repair (e.g. renovation, restoration, etc.) and
work in tunnels or excavations;
 Leisure/Sport related: driving motorcycles.
II. Hand protection
Arms, hands and fingers are often injured and, therefore, it is vital to wear hand protection equipment
when it is required. The hand protection equipment can ensure protection against heat, cold, vibrations,
burns, cuts by sharp objects, bacteriological risks and chemical contamination.
Examples of hand protection equipment:
 Work gloves
Activities requiring hand protection equipment:
 construction and outdoor work;

 working with vibrating apparatus;
 working in hot or cold environments;
 working with chemicals and hazardous elements;
 manual handling of abrasive or sharp objects.
III. Eye and face protection

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Numbers are scary! Every day, 600+ workers worldwide suffer from eye injuries. Such injuries can be
avoided simply by wearing the proper eye and face protection equipment. As examples of such PPE can
be mentioned the following ones:
 Safety glasses and goggles;

 Eye and face shields
You are encouraged and advised to wear eye and face protection equipment when:
 working with lasers or power driven tools;

 using gas or vapour under pressure;
 performing welding operations;
 handling hazardous substances.
IV. Respiratory protection
The respiratory protection covers a broad group of PPE: breathing apparatus, full face or half mask
respirators, powered respirators, protective hoods, disposal face masks, detectors, monitors, etc.
Adequate training on how users should use the equipment is always required.
This type of PPE must be present when being in contact with large amounts of gases, powders, dust and
vapours.
V. Hearing protection
The hearing protection equipment is vital when working in an environment with high-sound levels. The
type of hearing protection should not only be suitable for the working environment but also provide a
level of hygiene and comfort to the users. A good practice is to provide employees with a range of
protectors and then allow them to select the ones which suit them the best.
Examples of hearing protection equipment:
 Earplugs
 defenders;
 Noise meters;
 Communications sets;
 Acoustic foam.
VI. Foot protection
The foot protection equipment is designed to protect the feet and legs against various hazards, such as
extreme temperatures, crushing, piercing, slipping, cutting, chemicals and electricity. It is typically
required when users are involved in construction activities, working in very cold or hot environments,
working with chemicals and forestry, or when manually handling heavy objects.
As examples of foot protection equipment can be pointed out the following ones:
 Safety boots and shoes;

 Gumboots
 Anti-static and conductive footwear.

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VII. Body protection
Usually, body protection equipment is required in the following cases:
 For protection against weather conditions when working outdoors;

 Ensuring the high-visibility of users when they work in areas where there is a mixed vehicle
(e.g. bikes, motors, cars and busses) and pedestrian traffic;
 For users’ protection against extreme temperatures;
 Ensuring protection against entanglement, drowning, chemical contamination, etc.
Examples of body protection equipment:
 Life jackets;
 Clothing for specific weather conditions;
 High-visibility clothing;
OCCUPATION SAFETY AND HEALTH STANDARDS OSHS

According to the OSH act of 2007, there is legal obligation to provide and maintain a safe and healthy
workplace.
Why practice OSH
1. The social imperative, protecting people is the right to do
2. The legal imperative, safety is required by law
3. The fiscal imperative, keeping the workplace healthy and safe improves the bottom line
NB The main focus in OSH must be prevention
Section 6 of OSH general duties of the occupier
a) Ensure safety and absence of risk in connection with use, handling, storage and transport of articles
and substances
b) Provide information, instruction training and supervision
c) Ensure that any place of work including means of access and exit are maintained in a safe
condition.
Section 13 general duties of the employee to say in class
a) Wear and use protective equipment
b) Report any hazardous situation
c) Report any accident or injury arising in the course of his work
d) Comply with the safety and health procedures

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UNIT 2
Environment Pollution: Types, Causes, Effects
What is Environmental Pollution?
 Environment Pollution is the addition of contaminants into the natural environment that
causes detrimental effects to nature, natural resources and mankind.
 Any unnatural and negative changes in all the dimensions like chemical, physical and
biological characteristics of any component of the ecosystem i.e. air, water or soil which
can cause harmful effects on various forms of life and property is called environmental
pollution.
What is a Pollutant?
 Any substance which causes harmful effects or uneasiness in the organisms, then that
particular substance may be called as the pollutant.
The materials that cause pollution are of two types:
1. Persistent pollutants: Those pollutants which remain consistent in the environment for a
long period of time without any change in its original form are called persistent
pollutants. For example pesticides, nuclear wastes, and plastics etc.
2. Non-persistent pollutants: These pollutants are the opposite of persistent pollutant and
break down in the simple form. If this process of breaking down is done by living
organisms, then such pollutants are referred to as biodegradable pollutants.
From another perspective, pollutants can be classified as follows:
1. Primary Pollutants: Primary pollutants are those which remain in the form in which they
were added to the environment for ex. DDT, Plastic
2. Secondary Pollutants: Secondary pollutants are formed due to interaction of primary
pollutants amongst themselves viz. PAN by the interaction of NOx & Hydrocarbons.
According to their existence in nature:
1. Quantitative Pollutants: These substances are already present in the atmosphere but they
become pollutant when their concentration level reaches to a particular level which is
above a threshold limit.
2. Qualitative Pollutants: These are man-made pollutants eg. Fungicides, herbicides etc.
According to origin:
1. Man-made Pollutants
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2. Natural Pollutants
According to the nature of disposal:

Biodegradable Pollutants
1. Non-biodegradable Pollutants
Types of Environment Pollution:
AIR POLLUTION:
 Air pollution is the presence of one or more disadvantageous content in such quantity and
for such duration, as it is catastrophic, or tend to be catastrophic, to human health and
welfare, animal or plant life.
 It is the contaminants of air by the discharge of detrimental substances.
Some of the air pollutants, their sources, and effects:
Name of the
Sources Health effects
pollutants
Industries, vehicles and Problems in the lungs, respiratory systems and
Nitrogen oxides
power plants causes asthma and bronchitis.
Emission and burning of Severe headache, irritation to mucous
Carbon monoxide
fossil fuels membrane, unconsciousness and death.
Vision problem, severe headache and heart
Carbon dioxide Burning of fossil fuels
strain.
Suspended particulate Vehicular emission and Lung irritation reduces development of RBC
matter burning of fossil fuels. and pulmonary malfunctioning.
Industries and power Irritation in eyes and throat, allergies, cough
Sulphur oxide
plant etc.
Industries and vehicular
Smog Respiratory and eye problems
pollution
Kidney problems, irritation in eyes, nose and
throat, asthma, hypertension and carcinogenic
Hydrocarbons Burning of fossil fuels
effects on lungs.
Refrigerators, emission
Chlorofluorocarbons Depletion of ozone layer, global warming
from jets
 Other pollutants are cadmium, lead, mercury, silica, coal dust and particles and
radioactive pollutants.

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Control measures:
 Policy measures
 Modification of industrial process and selection of suitable fuels and its utilization.
 Collection of pollutants and convert it into less toxic forms by different methods

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WATER POLLUTION
 Addition of certain substances such as organic, inorganic, biological and

radiological to the water, which degrades the water quality and makes it unhealthy
for use.
 Water pollution is not only confined to surface water but also spread to
groundwater, sea, and ocean.
Sources
Point sources: These are directly pointed towards the water bodies from the source of origin
of pollution and are thus easy to regulate.
Non-point sources: These sources are related to many diffuse sources and are thus difficult to
regulate.
Some of the sources are:
 Industrial and community wastewater: Industries like mining, iron and

steel, pharmaceuticals, food processing, soap and detergent and paper and pulp.
 Agricultural sources,
 Thermal pollution (discharge of hot water by thermal power plants cause
deficiency of dissolved oxygen in water) and underground water pollution.
 Marine pollution: river discharge, manmade pollution and oil spills etc.
Effects
 An excessive amount of mercury in water can cause Minamata disease in humans

and dropsy in fishes; Lead in large amount can cause dyslexia, Cadmium poisoning
causes Itai – Itai disease, etc.
 Polluted water has less amount of Dissolved oxygen (DO) content which is
important for sensitive organisms, thereby eliminates sensitive organisms.
 Excess of nitrate in drinking water is dangerous for infants and human health,
excess fluoride cause neuromuscular disorder and teeth deformity, hardening of
bones and painful joints.
 Biological magnification and eutrophication.
Note: ‘Eu’ means healthy and ‘trophy’ means nutrition. The improvement of nutrients in
water bodies causes eutrophication. Domestic waste discharge, agricultural waste, land
drainage and industrial waste in a water body leads to a rapid increase in nutrients in a
water body which initiates early ageing of water bodies.
Explain causes of eutrophication

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Control measures
 water should be minimized by changing the techniques involved.
 Recycling and treatment of water should be used to the maximum extent possible.
 The quantity of discharge of wastewater can be minimized.
 Excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers should be avoided.
 Organic farming and efficient use of animal residues as fertilizers.
SOIL POLLUTION
 Addition of unwanted substances to the soil which negatively affects physical,

chemical and biological properties of soil and reduces its productivity is called soil
pollution.
 The factors which disturb the biological balance of the soil and deteriorate the
quality, texture, and mineral content are called soil pollutants.
 Use of fertilizers, pesticides, insecticides, dumping of solid waste, deforestation,
and pollution due to urbanization and other anthropogenic substances causes soil
pollution.
Sources
 Industrial waste: lead, cadmium, mercury, alkalies, organic substances, and chemicals.
 Agricultural waste: fertilizers, pesticides, insecticides, and manures.
 Discarded materials and radioactive elements and plastic bags.
Effects
 Agriculture: It reduces soil fertility and thus crop yields;

 Increase soil erosion and salinity.
 Ecological imbalance and imbalance in flora and fauna further increases.
 Problems in urban areas like clogging in drains, the release of gases, foul smells,
and problems in wastewater management.
 Release of radioactive rays, biomagnification and pollutant gases cause health
problems.
Control measures
 Afforestation, reforestation and

 use of organic farming.
 Solid waste management and reduction of waste from the construction area.
 Stop the use of plastic bags and use bags of degradable materials like paper and cloth.
 Biomedical waste should be collected and incinerated in incinerators.
NOISE POLLUTION
 When unpleasant noise is created by machines or people which is annoying,

distracting and physically painful then it is called noise pollution.
 Sound is measured in decibels (dB), a person’s hearing can be damaged if exposed

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to noise levels over 75 dB over a period of time.

 WHO recommends 30 dB sound levels for indoor.
Note: Noise pollution (control and regulation) Rules, 2000 define ambient noise levels for
various areas.
Sources
Indoor
sources
 It includes noise produced by radio, television, generators, electric fans, air coolers
etc.
Outdoor sources
 It include loudspeakers, industrial activities, automobiles, rail traffic, aero-planes

and activities in social religious places etc.
Effects
 Noise pollution is annoying and irritating. Noise causes many problems like
disturbs sleep, causes hypertension (high blood pressure), emotional complications
such as aggression, mental depression and annoyance.
 Noise pollution adversely affects the efficiency of individuals.
 Noise pollution can cause damage to the material of building due to exposure to
ultrasonic/infrasonic waves.
Control measures
 Making noise mounds, walls for noise attenuation

 Well-maintained roads and smooth surfacing of it are some of the noise abatement
measures.
 Air traffic noise can be tackled by the appropriate introduction of noise regulations
for takeoff and landing of aircraft at the airport.
 Use of soundproofing equipment like in areas producing a lot of noise can reduce
industrial noise.
 Reducing noise level from domestic sectors,
 Maintenance of automobiles, and
 prohibition of uses of loudspeakers for certain time.
Types of solid wastes

Solid waste refers to the range of materials—arising from animal and human activities—that are
discarded as unwanted and useless.

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Solid waste is generated from industrial, residential, and commercial activities in a given area,
and may be handled in a variety of ways
Solid Waste Management?
Solid waste management is defined as the discipline associated with control of generation,
storage, collection, transport or transfer, processing and disposal of solid waste materials in a
way that best addresses the range of public health, conservation, economic, aesthetic,
engineering, and other environmental considerations.
Classification of solid waste
(i) Domestic/Residential Waste:

This category of waste comprises the solid wastes that originate from single and multi-family
household units. These wastes are generated as a consequence of household activities such as
cooking, cleaning, repairs, hobbies, redecoration, empty containers, packaging, clothing, old
books, writing/new paper, and old furnishings. Households also discard bulky wastes such as
furniture and large appliances which cannot be repaired and used.
(ii) Municipal Waste:

Municipal waste include wastes resulting from municipal activities and services such as street
waste, dead animals, market waste and abandoned vehicles.
However, the term is commonly applied in a wider sense to incorporate domestic wastes,
institutional wastes and commercial wastes.
(iii) Commercial Waste:

Included in this category are solid wastes that originate in offices, wholesale and retail stores,
restaurants, hotels, markets, warehouses and other commercial establishments. Some of these
wastes are further classified as garbage and others as rubbish.
(iv) Institutional Waste:

Institutional wastes are those arising from institutions such as schools, universities, hospitals and
research institutes. It includes wastes which are classified as garbage and rubbish as well as
wastes which are considered to be hazardous to public health and to the environment.
(v) Garbage:
Garbage is the term applied to animal and vegetable wastes resulting from the handling, storage,
sale, preparation, cooking and serving of food. Such wastes contain putrescible organic matter,
which produces strong odours and therefore attracts rats, flies and other vermin. It requires
immediate attention in its storage, handling and disposal.
(vi) Rubbish:
Rubbish is a general term applied to solid wastes originating in households, commercial
establishments and institutions, excluding garbage and ashes.
(vii) Ashes:
Ashes are the residues from the burning of wood, coal, charcoal, coke and other combustible
materials, for cooking and heating in houses, institutions and small industrial establishments.
When produced in large quantities at power generating plants and factories these wastes are
classified as industrial wastes. Ashes consist of a fine powdery residue, cinders and clinker often

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mixed with small pieces of metal and glass.
(viii) Bulky Wastes:

In this category are bulky household wastes which cannot be accommodated in the normal
storage containers of households. For this reason they require special collection. In developed
countries bulky wastes are large household appliances such as cookers, refrigerators and washing
machines as well as furniture, crates, vehicle parts, tyres, wood, trees and branches. Metallic
bulky wastes are sold as scrap metal but some portion is disposed of at sanitary landfills.
(ix) Street Sweeping:

This term applies to wastes that are collected from streets, walkways, alleys, parks and vacant
lots. In the more affluent countries manual street sweeping has virtually disappeared but it still
commonly takes place in developing countries, where littering of public places is a far more
widespread and acute problem. Mechanised street sweeping is the dominant practice in the
developed countries. Street wastes include paper, cardboard, plastic, dirt, dust, leaves and other
vegetable matter.
(x) Dead Animals:

This is a term applied to dead animals that die naturally or accidentally killed. This category does
not include carcass and animal parts from slaughterhouses which are regarded as industrial
wastes. Dead animals are divided into two groups, large and small. Among the large animals are
horses, cows, goats, sheep, hogs and the like. Small animals include dogs, cats, rabbits and rats.
The reason for this differentiation is that large animals require special equipment for lifting and
handling during their removal. If not collected promptly, dead animals are a threat to public
health because they attract flies and other vermin as they putrefy. Their presence in public places
is particularly offensive and emits foul smell from the aesthetic point of view.
(xi) Construction and Demolition Wastes:

Construction and demolition wastes are the waste materials generated by the construction,
refurbishment, repair and demolition of houses, commercial buildings and other structures. It
mainly consists of earth, stones, concrete, bricks, lumber, roofing materials, plumbing materials,
heating systems and electrical wires and parts of the general municipal waste stream, but when
generated in large amounts at building and demolition sites, it is generally removed by
contractors for filling low lying areas and by urban local bodies for disposal at landfills.
(xii) Industrial Wastes:

In the category are the discarded solid material of manufacturing processes and industrial
operations. They cover a vast range of substances which are unique to each industry. For this
reason they are considered separately from municipal wastes. It should be noted, however, that
solid wastes from small industrial plants and ash from power plants are frequently disposed of at
municipal landfills. For details please refer to Chapter 6 on “Industrial Wastes”
Xiii Biomedical waste

Is defined as any waste, which is generated during the diagnosis, treatment or immunisation of
human beings or animals, or in research activities pertaining thereto, or in the production or
testing of biologicals
Functional Elements of the Waste Management System

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There are six functional components of the waste management system, as outlined below:
1. Waste generation: This encompasses any activities involved in identifying materials that
are no longer usable and are either gathered for systematic disposal or thrown away.
2. Onsite handling, storage, and processing: This relates to activities at the point of waste
generation, which facilitate easier collection. For example, waste bins are placed at sites
that generate sufficient waste.
3. Waste collection: A crucial phase of waste management, this includes activities such as
placing waste collection bins, collecting waste from those bins, and accumulating trash in
the location where the collection vehicles are emptied. Although the collection phase
involves transportation, this is typically not the main stage of waste transportation.
4. Waste transfer and transport: These are the activities involved in moving waste from
the local waste collection locations to the regional waste disposal site in large waste
transport vehicles.
5. Waste processing and recovery: This refers to the facilities, equipment, and techniques
employed to recover reusable or recyclable materials from the waste stream and to
improve the effectiveness of other functional elements of waste management.
6. Disposal: The final stage of waste management. It involves the activities aimed at the
systematic disposal of waste materials in locations such as landfills or waste-to-energy
facilities.
Unit 3
Sustainable resource use
Resource –are anything that has utility and adds value to your life. Air, water, food, plants, animals,
minerals, metals, and everything else that exists in nature and has utility to mankind
An environmental resource is any material, service, or information from the environment that is
valuable to society. This can refer to anything that people find useful in their environs, or
surroundings. Food from plants and animals, wood for cooking, heating, and building,
metals, coal , and oil are all environmental resources. Clean land, air, and water are
environmental resources, as are the abilities of land, air, and water to absorb society's waste
products. Heat from the sun, transportation and recreation in lakes, rivers, and oceans, a
beautiful view, or the discovery of a new species are all environmental resources.
Environmental resources can be classified as renewable, non-renewable and continuous.
 Renewable environmental resources are those which are, or can be, renewed within a
relatively short time, for example, water through the water cycle; and plants, animals and
marine life through reproduction. However, overuse of a renewable resource can lead to
its disappearance, as with the overexploitation of a fishery or the over-extraction of
groundwater.
Assignment: Draw and explain a water cycle
 Non-renewable environmental resources are those that cannot be renewed, for example,
minerals. Soils that have been degraded can only be renewed over long timescales.
Continuous environmental resources are those, such as solar or wind energy, whose
availability is unaffected by their use by humans.

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Types of resource
1. Natural resources
Anything and everything that is available naturally on earth is a natural resource. We can further
divide them into:
Biotic & Abiotic

Any life form that lives within nature is a Biotic Resource, like humans, animals, plants, etc. In
contrast, an abiotic resource is that which is available in nature but has no life; like metals, rocks,
and stones. Both biotic and abiotic resources can be renewable or non-renewable.
Renewable & Non-renewable

Renewable resources are almost all elements of nature which can renew themselves. For e.g.
sunlight, wind, water, forests and likewise. While, non-renewable resources, are limited in their
quantity. Like fossil fuels and minerals. Though these resources take millions of years to form, they
would eventually get over within our lifetime if we use continuously.
Potential, Developed, and Stock Resources

Natural elements which are already easily available but humans are yet to discover their real power
are Potential resources. For example, solar and wind energy are two natural resources, which have a
high potential for human life. Though we are using it, we can use these even more in the future once
we understand their true potential.
In contrast, a developed resource is that which humans have discovered and developed over a long
time. Most of the water, fossil fuel, minerals, plants and animals that we use for our need today, are
developed resources.
There are some resources present in nature, which have enough potential, but we do not have
adequate knowledge or technology to develop it. As a result, these remain in nature as stock
resources. For example, Hydrogen and Oxygen gases can be used as rich sources of energy but we
still do not know how.
2. Man-made resources
When humans use natural things to make something new that provides utility and value to our lives,
it is called human-made resources. For instance, when we use metals, wood, cement, sand, and solar
energy to make buildings, machinery, vehicles, bridges, roads, etc. they become man-made
resources. Likewise, technology is also a man-made resource. Man-made resources are mostly
renewable. One can re-build a building or fixed a broken machine.
And, because humans have the skills, intelligence, and knowledge, and use technology to transform
a natural resource into usable and valuable things, they themselves become a resource.
A prime solution to establish sustainable waste management is through the application of the 3r’s
of waste management definition.

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Methods for minimizing wastage
Methods of minimizing wastage

Minimizing waste of resources is crucial for environmental sustainability and resource
efficiency. Here are some methods to help reduce resource wastage:
1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (3Rs):
- **Reduce:** Start by minimizing consumption. Buy only what you need, avoid single-use
items, and opt for products with minimal packaging.
- **Reuse:** Find ways to use items multiple times before discarding them. This can include
using reusable shopping bags, containers, and water bottles.
- **Recycle:** Properly sort and recycle materials like paper, cardboard, glass, plastic, and
metal. Ensure you follow local recycling guidelines.
2. **Composting:**
- Composting organic waste, such as food scraps and yard trimmings, reduces landfill waste
and creates nutrient-rich soil for gardening.
3. **Energy Conservation:**
- Implement energy-efficient technologies and practices in homes and businesses to reduce
electricity and fuel consumption.
4. **Water Conservation:**
- Fix leaks and install water-efficient appliances and fixtures to reduce water wastage in homes
and industries.
5. **Sustainable Agriculture:**
- Implement sustainable farming practices that minimize water and pesticide use while
maintaining soil health.
6. **Lean Manufacturing:**
- In industrial settings, lean manufacturing techniques focus on minimizing waste, such as
excess inventory, overproduction, and defective products.
7. **Waste Audits:**
- Conduct regular waste audits to identify areas where resources are being wasted. Use the
findings to implement improvement strategies.
8. **Circular Economy:**
- Transition towards a circular economy model, where products and materials are designed to
be reused, remanufactured, or recycled, reducing the need for new resources.
9. **Eco-Friendly Transportation:**
- Use public transportation, carpooling, biking, or walking to reduce fuel consumption and
emissions.
10. **Packaging Reduction:**

- Encourage companies to use minimal and eco-friendly packaging materials to reduce waste
generated from packaging.
11. **Digitalization:**
- Embrace digital solutions to reduce paper usage, document storage, and physical travel for
meetings and communication.

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12. **Education and Awareness:**

- Educate individuals and communities about the importance of resource conservation and
sustainable practices.
13. **Government Policies and Regulations:**
- Support and advocate for policies that promote resource conservation, waste reduction, and
sustainable practices.
14. **Collaboration and Partnerships:**
- Collaborate with organizations, businesses, and communities to develop and implement
resource-saving initiatives.
15. **Innovation and Technology:**
- Invest in research and development to discover new technologies and innovations that can
reduce resource consumption and waste generation.
16. **Waste-to-Energy:**
- Explore waste-to-energy technologies that can convert some types of waste into useful
energy, reducing the environmental impact of disposal.
By adopting these methods, individuals, businesses, and governments can work together to
minimize the wastage of resources and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally
friendly future.
What are the 3 R’s of Waste Management?

The 3r’s of solid waste management occurs in the order of ranking or priority of the actions that
can be taken to help cut down on wastes. The 3r’s of waste management is also called the
hierarchy of waste management.
What are the 3rs of Waste Management?

The 3r’s of waste management stands for:
 Reduce
 Reuse
 Recycle
Humans produce wastes that continually result in environmental degradation. A common type of
garbage is the municipal solid waste which is a general waste collected by the municipalities. It
is generated mainly by households, street sweeping, commercial activities and the construction
or demolition debris. This can be from farming to routine food consumption.
It may not be possible to eliminate waste disposal, but we can make a significant contribution to
cut waste generation down to help preserve our environment
Importance of the 3r’s of Waste Management

The importance of 3r’s of waste management elements is to help:
 Cut down on the waste disposals.

 Conserve natural resources, landfill spaces, and energy.
 Save land and money that communities use to manage wastes.
 Reduce air pollution and contribute to a healthier planet.
The 3r’s of waste management is a continuous cycle. Let’s explore further the 3r’s definition and
have an in-depth look at what each R represent and actions to take to contribute to each goal.
The 3r’s of waste management means exercising measures that help reduce, reuse and recycle
wastes.

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1. Reduce
The first R in the 3r’s of waste managementz stands for Reduce. It means taking measures that
help cut down wastes. If we decline to buy items that we don’t need or purchase multi-purpose
items, then we can help reduce the waste products that go into the trash bin.
The primary step towards lowering wastage is doing a thorough examination of what one needs
and its purpose.
Here are three valuable steps to assess the value of each item:
– The first step is assessing whether there is already something else in place of what we want,
that can be used to accomplish the purpose we intend to do. We need to check if the items that
we have can serve as multi-purpose. To reduce wastes, we need to buy things that can do more
than one jo
– Another critical consideration is assessing if what one intends to do with the item is
something that is necessary. It is vital to consider whether or not what the object enables one to
do, have any real meaning or purpose.
– The final step is to assess if the items are a part of something crucial that one will need to do
or may encounter in life? It is essential to create a limit to the things that we buy as a precaution,
or we envision we will need to use in life. It is vital always make sure that what we consume, or
keep in our lives as preparation for certain situations, matches the reality of potential
opportunities in life.
Some of the practical actions that can be done to reduce wastes at home and in the workplace
include:
– Printing papers on both sides to reduce paper wastage.
– Using electronic mail to reach out to people instead of sending paper mails.
– Using cloth napkins instead of kitchen towels or paper napkins.
– Borrowing things not used often.
– Finding ways to save energy and water like buying energy star bulbs and items that consume
little water while in use.
– Reducing the environmental damage caused by cars instead use carpooling with friends,
taking the bus, walking, or riding a bike instead of self-driving.
– Avoiding use of disposable plates, spoons, glass, cups, and napkins.
– Avoiding the purchase of items that are over-packaged with foil, paper, and plastic since the
excess packaging goes to waste.
Buying items in bulk to reduce the overall amount of packaging used.

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– Buying durable goods that have an extended warranty because they can generally last longer
and save on landfill space.
The concept of this first r in the hierarchy of waste management is only to acquire or use what is
necessary. If we buy or consume less, then the result is less wastage. We thus need to focus more
on the source of the wastes that is where it is coming from and cut it.
The goal of this rule is to lessen the overall amount of waste and rubbish that humans’ produce.
Here are several ways to go low waste, which will help you reduce your consumption.
2. Reuse
The second R in the 3r’s of waste management is Reuse. It means putting an item into use again
or for another purpose. It is when we can use an object again or differently compared to what it is
intended to do. It also means passing on things to others instead of throwing them away.
Broken pieces can be put into a different use instead of putting them in a bin.
Collecting items or trash picking to create something new is another way also essential to waste
hierarchy.
Some practical actions of reusing include:
 A good example today is the modular construction of office buildings and homes
out of discarded shipping containers. The large, semi-truck sized metal containers
are nowadays put up as homes and offices which mean they don’t go into the
landfills and using them doesn’t require the additional expenditure of natural
resources to meltdown and reconfigure the metals used to create them.
 Using old tins and pots to store items in the kitchen or store loose items together
such as computer wires.
 Using cloth sacks instead of plastic bags.
 Using re-usable lunch bags in place of disposable ones.
 Donating old toys, clothes, and furniture to the needy or the poor.
 Writing on paper can be done on both sides.
 Making old tires into valuable items like seats and tables or in making tire-swing.
 Using splintered woods as firewood or in woodcraft.
 Using old newspapers to wrap and package details.
 Donating old books on to others or public libraries.
 Giving old or unwanted clothes to street children or charity institutions.
 Giving old electric equipment to schools or NGO’s that can use them.
 Using rechargeable batteries, again and again as opposed to using regular cells.
 Building a compost bin in your backyard or getting a container to compost in an
apartment and reusing many waste items like used tea bags or wastes that
degrades and turns into compost that can help grow plants.
 Using sealable containers instead of plastic wraps.
 Investing in some reusable shopping bags or bringing old ones with you to the
store.
 Looking into upcycling ideas from the everyday household items as many have
different uses you may never have thought.
3. Recycling

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The third r in the waste hierarchy stands for Recycle. To recycle means to change or transform
waste and non-useable items into raw materials that can be used to create new objects.
There is a need for recycling stations to help with the process of recycling.
Different sectors have made contributions towards this goal.
For example, governments have created agreements and incentives with industries that process
waste materials. Some ISO standards related to recycling are the ISO 15270:2008 which is for
plastics waste and ISO 14001:2004 that is for environmental management control concerning
recycling practice.
Recycling reduces the use of energy and consumption of raw materials. It also reduces air and
water pollution. Usage of recyclable materials can help conserve the environment and make it
green again.
Here are some actions that can contribute to this goal:
 Buying eco-friendly products or products that are made up of recycled materials.

 Inventing new ways to recreate different items.
 Avoiding buying of hazardous materials that could be difficult to recycle
 Buying non-toxic products, whenever possible.
 Using recycled paper for printing or making paper handicrafts.
 Putting cereal boxes, newspapers, and bottles into a recycling bin to make sure
that less waste goes to landfill and recreating more materials into new things.
 Checking with the local garbage company to see if they have a recycling option.
 Checking with local recycling facilities to look at the items they accept.
Conclusion on the 3 R’s of Waste Management

The 3r’s of waste management is an ideal solution to the ever increasing environmental, health
and economic issues caused by increased wastage and pollution.

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Treatment and Disposal

Prior to disposal, treatment can help reduce the volume and toxicity of waste. Treatments can be
physical (e.g., shredding), chemical (e.g., incineration), and biological (e.g., anaerobic
digestor). Landfills are the most common form of waste disposal and are an important
component of an integrated waste management system. Modern landfills are well-engineered
facilities located, designed, operated, and monitored to ensure compliance with state and federal
regulations. Landfills that accept municipal solid waste are primarily regulated by state, tribal,
and local governments. EPA, however, established national standards that these landfills must
meet in order to stay open. The federal landfill regulations eliminated the open dumps (disposal
facilities that do not meet federal and state criteria) of the past. Today’s landfills must meet
stringent design, operation, and closure requirements. Methane gas, a byproduct of decomposing
waste, can be collected and used as fuel to generate electricity. After a landfill is capped, the land
may be used for recreation sites such as parks, golf courses, and ski slopes.
Evaluate current practices in relation
Environmental resource is any material, service, or information from the environment that is
valuable to society. This can refer to anything that people find useful in their environs, or
surroundings.
The Environmental Resources Information Network (ERIN) aims to strengthen the

environmental information evidence-base accessible to the Department and its stakeholders,
bringing together departmental priorities for environmental information and research, and adding
value to high priority activities by providing environmental and spatial information products,
advice, analysis and tools.

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Environmental information systems are concerned with the management of data about the soil,
the water, the air, and the species in the world around us
Access to relevant environmental information can help to improve the ecology of industry
Industrial environmental data also has proved to be especially useful for strategic planning by
regulatory agencies and providers of state manufacturing assistance.
There are several forces driving state agencies and the private sector to increase public access to
environmental information. These include the need for greater administrative efficiency, the
increased public demand for information, and the potential for improving environmental
protection
Waste management procedures
waste management procedures are a set of systematic actions and practices

designed to handle, dispose of, and minimize the environmental and health
impacts of waste generated by various human activities. Proper waste
management is essential to protect the environment, public health, and
conserve resources. Below is a general overview of a waste management
procedure:
1. Waste Generation:
 Identify and categorize different types of waste generated in
your facility or community. This may include municipal solid
waste, hazardous waste, recyclables, and organic waste.
2. Waste Segregation:
 Segregate waste at the source to separate recyclables, organic
waste, hazardous waste, and non-recyclable waste. Use color-
coded bins and labels to make segregation easier for everyone.
3. Collection:
 Establish a regular waste collection schedule based on the type
of waste generated.
 Use appropriate collection containers and equipment for each
waste type.
4. Transportation:
 Transport waste to the appropriate disposal or treatment facilities
using suitable vehicles.
 Ensure that vehicles are properly maintained to prevent leaks
and spills during transit.
5. Recycling:
 Set up recycling programs for materials like paper, cardboard,
glass, plastic, and metal.
 Collaborate with recycling companies to collect and process
recyclable materials.
6. Organic Waste:
 Implement composting programs for organic waste like food
scraps and yard trimmings.
 Compost can be used as a valuable soil conditioner or fertilizer.

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7. Hazardous Waste:
 Identify and label hazardous waste correctly.
 Store hazardous waste in designated containers in accordance
with safety regulations.
 Arrange for proper disposal or treatment by licensed hazardous
waste disposal facilities.
8. Disposal:
 Use sanitary landfills or waste-to-energy facilities for non-
recyclable and non-hazardous waste.
 Ensure that landfills are designed and managed to prevent
contamination of soil and groundwater.
9. Education and Training:
 Educate employees, residents, or community members on proper
waste management practices.
 Provide training on waste segregation, recycling, and hazardous
waste handling.
10. Monitoring and Compliance:
 Regularly monitor waste management practices to ensure
compliance with regulations and standards.
 Conduct waste audits to track progress and identify areas for
improvement.
11. Reporting:
 Maintain records of waste generation, disposal, and recycling
activities.
 Report data to relevant regulatory agencies and stakeholders as
required.
12. Continuous Improvement:
 Regularly review and update waste management procedures to
incorporate new technologies and best practices.
 Seek ways to reduce waste generation through waste
minimization and sustainability initiatives.
13. Legal Compliance:
 Ensure that your waste management procedures adhere to local,
state, and federal regulations regarding waste handling, disposal,
and environmental protection.
14. Public Engagement:
 Engage with the community to raise awareness about the
importance of responsible waste management and encourage
participation in recycling and waste reduction programs.
Remember that waste management procedures can vary depending on

location, waste types, and local regulations. It's essential to tailor your waste
management plan to the specific needs and resources of your organization or
community. Regularly review and update your procedures to stay current
with evolving waste management practices and regulations
Waste can be classified in various ways based on different criteria, such as its source, composition,
and potential environmental impact. Here are some common classifications of waste:

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1. **Source of Generation:**
- **Municipal Solid Waste (MSW):** This is the waste generated by households, schools, and
businesses. It includes items like paper, cardboard, plastics, food waste, and household hazardous
waste.
- **Industrial Waste:** Generated by factories, manufacturing processes, and industrial activities.
It can include hazardous waste, non-hazardous waste, and special waste.
- **Construction and Demolition (C&D) Waste:** Generated during the construction, renovation,
and demolition of buildings and infrastructure. It includes materials like concrete, wood, metals, and
debris.
- **Hazardous Waste:** Waste materials that are potentially harmful to human health or the
environment. This category includes chemicals, batteries, and certain medical waste.
- **Electronic Waste (e-waste):** Discarded electronic devices and components, such as
computers, televisions, and mobile phones.
- **Agricultural Waste:** Generated from farming activities, including crop residues, animal
manure, and pesticides containers.
- **Biomedical or Healthcare Waste:** Generated in healthcare facilities, including used syringes,
medical equipment, and biological waste.
2. **Composition:**
- **Organic Waste:** Composed of organic materials such as food scraps, yard waste, and paper
products.
- **Inorganic Waste:** Comprised of non-organic materials like plastics, glass, and metals.
- **Recyclable Waste:** Materials that can be recycled, including paper, cardboard, glass, and
certain plastics.
- **Non-Recyclable Waste:** Materials that cannot be easily recycled or are not economically
viable to recycle.
- **Toxic Waste:** Contains hazardous or toxic substances that pose risks to human health and
the environment.
- **Radioactive Waste:** Contains radioactive materials, often generated by nuclear power plants
and medical facilities.
3. **Management and Disposal Method:**

- **Landfill Waste:** Waste that is disposed of in landfills, which are designated areas for waste
burial.
- **Incinerator Waste:** Waste that is burned in specially designed facilities called incinerators.
- **Recyclable Waste:** Waste materials that can be processed and reused to make new products.
- **Compostable Waste:** Organic waste that can be turned into compost through natural
decomposition.
- **Waste-to-Energy (WTE):** Waste that is used as a fuel source to generate energy in waste-to-
energy plants.
4. **Special Categories:**
- **Biodegradable Waste:** Organic materials that can naturally decompose over time.
- **E-waste:** Waste generated from electronic and electrical equipment.
- **Household Hazardous Waste:** Waste from households that contains potentially hazardous
materials.
- **Toxic Waste:** Waste that contains toxic substances harmful to human health or the
environment.
- **Universal Waste:** Hazardous waste materials that are generated by a wide range of
businesses and households, such as batteries and fluorescent bulbs.
5. **International Hazardous Waste Classification:**

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- The Basel Convention categorizes hazardous waste into different classes and types for
international management and disposal.
6. **Waste Generation Trends:** Waste can also be classified based on trends and patterns, such as
increasing e-waste generation or changing consumption habits.
These classifications help governments, organizations, and individuals manage and dispose of waste
responsibly while minimizing its environmental and health impacts. Proper waste management is
essential for conserving resources, reducing pollution, and protecting public health.
Unit 4
Environmental laws and legislation
Environmental legislation is a collection of many laws and regulations aimed at protecting

the environment from harmful actions
This section covers environmental law in Kenya under the Kenya Environment Management and
Co-ordination Act.
Topics covered under environmental law-
 The right of every Kenyan to a clean environment

 Functions of NEMA
 Law on waste management
 Management of hazardous chemicals and substances
 Water management
 Regulation of pest control
 Control of radioactive substances
A brief introduction to Kenya environmental law

The Kenya Environmental law describes the legal rules in Kenya relating to the environment,
and more broadly the social, economic, philosophical and jurisprudential issues raised by
attempts to protect, conserve and reduce the impacts of human activity on the Kenyan
environment.
The topic may be divided into two major subjects: pollution control and remediation, and
resource conservation, individual exhaustion. The limitations and expenses that such laws may
impose on commerce, and the often unquantifiable (non-monetized) benefit of environmental
protection, have generated and continue to generate significant controversy.
Given the broad scope of the environmental law, no fully definitive list of environmental laws is
possible. The following discussion and resources give an indication of the breadth of law that
falls within the "environmental" metric.
Sources of Kenya Environmental law

There are a number of diverse sources of Kenya environmental law:

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 International law – Both international customary law and international conventions

function as sources of Kenya environmental law.
 Common law – A variety of common-law rules, derived from neighbor law, for example,
and the law of nuisance, are of significance as sources of environmental law. The dictum
sic utere tuo ut alienum laedas ("use your own so as to cause no harm") furnishes one
instance.
 Constitution of Kenya – The Constitution now informs and underlies the entire legal
system in Kenya. Of prime importance is the Bill of Rights, with its explicit provision for
environmental rights. The Constitution provides a framework for the administration of
environmental laws.
 Statute law – Environmental law is also derived, fairly obviously, from national and
provincial legislation, and from local by-laws.
 Customary law – Custom functions to some degree as a source of environmental law.
Historical development of Kenya environmental law
Environmental law in Kenya generally comprises the rules and doctrines arising from common
law, provisions of constitutions, statutes, general principles and treaties that deal with protection,
management and utilization of natural resources and the environment. The aims of environmental
law are:-
a) To facilitate environmental management by providing rules and regulations for
environmental conservation and preservation. In facilitating environmental management we get
to know how institutions for environmental management are created, how rules are created to
resolve environmental conflicts, and what are the acceptable standards of conduct and behavior
when interacting with the environment.
b) To facilitate sustainable development.

The sources of environmental law in Kenya include the constitution, framework law, sectoral
statutes, regulations, judicial decisions, customary law, treaties, general opinions of international
law and qualified writings among other sources.
The environmental law originally arose out of English Common law and such law sought to
uphold individual property rights as well as protect common property such as rivers, air, and sea.
Remedies for injuries sustained as a result of the environmental breach were pursued privately
whereas in other areas, public authorities were held to account for the same. Criminal law was
also used by the state to punish individuals for breaches, for example, the law of public nuisance,
trespass and arson.
The industrial revolution led to regulations to protect public healt
andcontrowaterpollution.These regulations were however localized at that
time.thisindustrialdevelopmentthatgaveimpetus to the growth of national laws when in the 1960s
countries saw the need to enactspecific laws to regulate the environment starting with Brazil
which enacothenvironment in 1967.Environmental law, therefore, developed from case law to
wtheprincipalinstrumentoGovernment in the implementation of all policies relating to the
environment.

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The functions of NEMA under Kenya laws are to —

(a) co-ordinate the various environmental management activities being undertaken by the lead
agencies and promote the integration of environmental considerations into development policies,
plans, programmes and projects with a view to ensuring the proper management and rational
utilization of environmental resources on a sustainable yield basis for the improvement of the
quality of human life in Kenya;
(b) take stock of the natural resources in Kenya and their utilization and conservation;
(c) establish and review in consultation with the relevant lead agencies, land use guidelines;
(d) examine land use patterns to determine their impact on the quality and quantity of natural
resources;
(e) carry out surveys which will assist in the proper management and conservation of the
environment;
(f) advise the Government on legislative and other measures for the management of the
environment or the implementation of relevant international conventions, treaties, and
agreements in the field of environment, as the case may be;
(g) advise the Government on regional and international environmental conventions, treaties and
agreements to which Kenya should be a party and follow up the implementation of such
agreements where Kenya is a party;
(h) undertake and coordinate research, investigation, and surveys in the field of environment and
collect, collate and disseminate information about the findings of such research, investigation or
survey;
(i) mobilize and monitor the use of financial and human resources for environmental
management;
(j) identify projects and programmes or types of projects and programmes, plans and policies for
which environmental audit or environmental monitoring must be conducted;
(k) initiate and evolve procedures and safeguards for the prevention of accidents which may
cause environmental degradation and evolve remedial measures where accidents occur; 1999
Environmental Management and Co-ordination No. 8
(l) monitor and assess activities, including activities being carried out by relevant lead agencies,
in order to ensure that the environment is not degraded by such activities, the environment is not
degraded by such activities, environmental management objectives are adhered to an adequate
early warning on impending environmental emergencies is given;
(m) undertake, in co-operation with relevant lead agencies, programmes intended to enhance
environmental education and public awareness about the need for sound environmental
management as well as for enlisting public support and encouraging the effort made by other
entities in that regard;
(n) publish and disseminate manuals, codes or guidelines relating to environmental management
and prevention or abatement of environmental degradation;
(o) render advice and technical support, where possible, to entities engaged in natural resources
management and environmental protection so as to enable them to carry out their responsibilities
satisfactorily;
(p) prepare and issue an annual report on the state of the environment in Kenya and in this regard
may direct any lead agency to prepare and submit to it a report on the state of the sector of the
environment under the administration of that lead agency;
(q) perform such other functions as the Government may assign to the Authority or as are
incidental or conducive to the exercise by the Authority of any or all of the functions
provided under the Environmental Management and Coordination Act.

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MANAGEMENT OF HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS AND SUBSTANCES

There are two kinds of sources of pollution of the environment under Kenya law:
1. Point sources of Pollution
2. Non-Point sources – referred to as diffuse sources of pollution
POINT SOURCES OF POLLUTION

Point sources of pollution under Kenya laws are sources which are fixed and the pollution from
which is predictable and known in advance. The epitome of point sources of pollution is the
waste drain. The ways in which point sources of pollution are managed is through firstly the
establishment of standards to be met by the pollutants which are to be discharged from those
point sources. In order to regulate that point source, the permit or license is issued for that
particular activity. For example, if one wishes to run a factory that will discharge pollutants
through a pipe, then you apply for a permit and the permit will indicate what the factory must
meet. Discharge of affluence is a normal part of economic activity and it is handled by issuing
permits and handling it so it falls to manageable standards.
NON POINT SOURCES OF POLLUTION

Non-point sources of pollution under Kenya laws refer to sources of pollution whose origin is
unpredictable and diffuse, they arise from unpredictable events or circumstances one does not
know until the pollution occurs at which particular point the pollution will occur. The example
of a non-point source of pollution is an accident involving a petrol tanker. Until the accident
occurs one doesn’t know where it occurs. Use of pesticides on crops is another example when it
rains the rains wash pesticides into the river and no one knows when it will happen.
The method of dealing with the non-point source of pollution is through prescribing preventive
measures. These are measures designed to ensure that the activity is undertaken in such a way as
to minimize or prevent altogether the occurrence of pollution or the extent of environmental
damage arising from the pollution.
Hazardous chemicals and substances are chemicals and substances which contain characteristics
which contain a danger to humans and the environment. We have listed the characteristics under
Section 91 of the Environmental Management and Coordination Act contains a list of
characteristics that make substances hazardous, these are that the substances are corrosive,
carcinogenic, flammable, toxic, persistent, explosive or radioactive. Until that characteristic or
the substance leads to environmental damage, the danger remains latent, latent means that it
exists but has not yet manifested itself. It is for these reasons that these substances represent
diffuse sources of pollution that is because you can live with them but something may occur that
makes environmental damage become a reality.
In Kenya a diverse range of laws deals with the management of hazardous chemicals and
substances. They include the Pest Control Products Act Cap 346 of the Laws of Kenya, the
Pharmacy and Poisons Act which is Cap 244, Radiation Protection Act Cap 243 of the Laws of
Kenya, act the Petroleum Act Cap 116 Laws of Kenya, Fertilisers and Animals foods Act Cap
145, the Foods, Drugs and Chemicals Act Cap 254, the Environmental Management and
Coordination Act of 1999 has introduced a parallel system for managing hazardous chemicals
and substances. All of these laws are product specific which means that each of them focuses on

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a certain category of products but the principles on which they are based are similar in every
case. The objective is preventive and it is an international principle that provides for
Classification, Packaging and Labelling Products. Classification, Packaging Labelling is a
principle of management of hazardous chemicals and substances applied internationally which
means that whether in Europe or Africa the principles are the same. The extent to which they
respected however is different depending on where one is.
REGULATION OF PEST CONTROL PRODUCTS

PEST CONTROL PRODUCTS ACT Cap 346
This Act regulates the import/export manufacture distribution and use of products which are used
for the control of pests and of the organic function of plants and animals. These are products
used to control pest (pesticides) this is an Act that regulates the import/export and use of
pesticides. The Act establishes the Pest Control Products Board and makes it the function of the
Board to register pest control products. It requires that every person who desires to register a
pest control product shall make an application to the Board. The Board may refuse to register
the product if its use would lead to unacceptable risk or harm to
1. Things on or in relation to which the pest control product is intended to be used; or
2. To public health, plants, animals or the environment.
CLASSIFICATION
The Act establishes 3 classes of pest control products
1. A restricted class – a class of products which present significant environmental risks and
these are products which are intended for use in aquatic and forestry situations; a good example
was the Cyprus Trees being destroyed by aphid, spraying all the Cyprus trees would pose a
problem to the environment since it was so widespread.
2. Commercial Class – class with environmental effects which are limited to a specific region.
3. Domestic Class – this is a class of products for which
(i) No special precautions are required in use

(ii) No equipment are required for inhalation hazard
(iii) No irreversible effects from repeated exposure.
(iv) Disposal of Containers can be safely done by placing it in the garbage bin; and
(v) The package sizes are limited to amounts that can be safely used and stored by consumers.
The best examples are insecticides i.e. doom.

PACKAGING
The law requires that the package shall be sufficiently durable and be designed and manufactured
to contain the product safely under practical conditions of storage, display and distribution.

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LABELLING
The act of labelling requires that every pest control product which is sold or made available must
have a label and the label must show the following 14 things.
1. Name of the product;
2. Information on the nature and degree of hazard inherent in it;
3. Statement directing the user to read the label;
4. The common name of the active ingredients;
5. Contents of the active ingredient; active ingredient has both a common and scientific name
so that the buyer may know;
6. Registration number of the product;
7. Net content;
8. Name and postal address of the registrant;
9. Directions for use of the product;
10. Information on the hazardous of handling storage display, distribution and disposal of the
product including instructions on procedures to alleviate the hazard, the contamination and
disposal of the product and the empty package;
11. Information identifying any significant hazard to things on or in relation to which the product
is intended to be used or to public health, plants, animals or the environment;
12. First aid instructions;
13. The toxicological information essential to the treatment of a person who is poisoned for
example antidotes, symptoms of poisoning and the ingredient that may affect the treatment;
14. A notice that it is an offence to use or store the product under unsafe conditions.
15. Package should bear a cautionary symbol, the cautionary symbols are also standard there is a
symbol for poison or danger, there is a symbol for corrosivity which is a test tube with a hand
sticking inside and crossed out, symbol for in-flammability which is fire, a symbol for
explosivity.
The Act also requires that the premises for manufacturing formulating, packaging selling or
storing the product must be licensed. The premises shall be of suitable design layout and
construction to ensure the health of workers and to avoid contamination of the environment. The
person who owns, operates or is in charge of the premises shall have adequate knowledge of the
chemistry, toxicology, efficacy and general use of the product being dealt with and of the
handling precautions of the products within the premises.
CONTROL OF RADIO ACTIVE SUBSTANCES
THE RADIATION PROTECTION ACT

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This Act controls the import/export possession and use of radio active substances and irradiating
apparatus (equipment which emit radio activity). Basically radiation occurs because of the
impact of ultra violet light.
The Act provides that
(i) no one shall knowingly without a licence manufacture or otherwise produce
(ii) sell or otherwise deal with,
(iii) have in his possession for use,
(iv) import or cause to be imported,
(v) export or cause to be exported any radio active substance or irradiating apparatus.
Application for a licence shall be made to the Radiation Protection Board which is established
under the Act. The Minister is required to prescribe precautions to be taken to prevent injury
being caused by ionising radiation to the health of persons employed in places where radio active
substances are manufactured, produced, treated, stored or used or where irradiating apparatus is
used or where other persons are likely to be exposed to harmful radiation. He is also required to
prescribe methods of disposal for radio active waste products and the transport, storage and use
of radio active material. Finally to prescribe maximum working hours of persons working with
radio active material.
Research on montreal protocol and Kyoto protocol
Features of environmental strategies
Environmental strategies refer to the actions and approaches taken to address and mitigate
environmental issues and promote sustainability. These strategies can be employed by
individuals, businesses, governments, and organizations to reduce their environmental impact.
Here are some key features of environmental strategies:
1. **Sustainability**: Environmental strategies are centered around the concept of sustainability,

which involves meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs. Sustainability considers economic, social, and
environmental factors.
2. **Environmental Impact Assessment**: Strategies often begin with a thorough assessment of

the environmental impact of current practices or proposed actions. This assessment helps identify
areas where improvements can be made.
3. **Resource Efficiency**: Environmental strategies aim to use resources more efficiently,

reducing waste and minimizing resource depletion. This includes optimizing energy and water
use, reducing material waste, and conserving natural resources.
4. **Waste Reduction**: Strategies often prioritize waste reduction through practices such as
recycling, reusing materials, and minimizing single-use products. Waste reduction helps reduce
the burden on landfills and conserves resources.

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5. **Renewable Energy**: Increasing the use of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and
hydro power is a common feature of environmental strategies. This reduces reliance on fossil
fuels and lowers greenhouse gas emissions.
6. **Green Technology**: Adoption of green and environmentally-friendly technologies is a key

component. This can include energy-efficient appliances, electric vehicles, and sustainable
building materials and practices.
7. **Conservation and Biodiversity**: Environmental strategies may include measures to protect

and enhance natural habitats, biodiversity, and ecosystems. This can involve initiatives such as
reforestation, wildlife conservation, and habitat restoration.
8. **Regulatory Compliance**: Environmental strategies often involve compliance with local,

national, and international environmental laws and regulations. This ensures that activities are
conducted in an environmentally responsible manner.
9. **Stakeholder Engagement**: Engaging with stakeholders, including the community,

customers, employees, and NGOs, is crucial. Stakeholder input can help shape and refine
environmental strategies and build support for sustainability initiatives.
10. **Continuous Improvement**: Environmental strategies are not static; they evolve over
time. Continuous monitoring, measurement, and evaluation are key features to ensure that goals
are met and that adjustments can be made as needed.
11. **Public Awareness and Education**: Raising awareness and educating stakeholders about
environmental issues and the importance of sustainability is often part of these strategies. This
can lead to more informed choices and support for sustainable practices.
12. **Cost Savings and Economic Benefits**: Many environmental strategies result in cost
savings over the long term. Energy-efficient technologies, for example, can reduce operational
expenses and increase profitability.
13. **Global Perspective**: Given the interconnectedness of environmental issues, many

strategies take a global perspective, recognizing the importance of international cooperation and
addressing global challenges such as climate change.
14. **Adaptation and Resilience**: In addition to mitigation, strategies often include measures
for adapting to the impacts of climate change and building resilience to environmental
challenges.
15. **Transparency and Reporting**: Many organizations and governments are increasingly
transparent about their environmental performance, reporting on their progress and goals to
demonstrate accountability.
Environmental strategies are diverse and can vary significantly depending on the goals and
priorities of the entities implementing them. However, they all share a common objective of
promoting environmental responsibility and sustainability.

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Unit 5
Implementation of specific environmental programs
Community needs
Community needs are gaps between what services currently exist in a community and what
should exist. It may be helpful to categorize gaps based on these four types of community needs
— perceived needs, expressed needs, absolute needs, and relative needs.
The environment is an important issue even when society is faced with economic crises, wars,
and unending social problems. It matters because Earth is the only home that humans have, and it
provides air, food, and other needs
Community Environmental Management is a method for improving the sustainable and
equitable governance of natural resources at the local level. These approaches use
Community Environmental Action Plans (CEAPS) to assess needs and strengthen overall
community management of natural resources
5s of good house keeping
5S of good housekeeping involves the principle of waste elimination through workplace
organization
The 5S Pillars
There are five pillars in 5S in a continuous improvement program, which stand for: Sort, Set in
Order, Shine, Standardize and Sustain — or in Japanese, Seiri, Seiton, Seiso, Seiketsu and
Shitsuke. The goal of a 5S program is to get products closer to operations and workers,
organized and labeled to eliminate wasted time and materials. The 5S philosophy is “a place
for everything and everything in its place,” and helps to eliminate wasted time, wasted space
and wasted inventory. Implementing 5S raises product quality and improves work productivity,
resulting in lower costs and higher efficiencies
 Sort: Start by removing all items from your work area. Inspect the equipment and
identify those items that are critical to the success of the function performed at the
workstation. Eliminate any duplicates, unnecessary equipment, infrequently used items
and trash. Identify the non-essential items as either waste or “valuable but not critical.”
Store the non-critical items outside of the workstation area. This saves time, space and
labor costs, while enhancing productivity.
 Set in Order: Whatever equipment is deemed critical to the operation must now be
organized. Assign positions for all equipment, work in progress and raw materials,
keeping ease of reach, identification and proximity to work surface in mind as you do.
The goal is to maximize the efficiency of the workstation layout. On a smaller scale, it’s
the same concept as warehouse layout. The most frequently used tools should be the
most convenient to grab. This eliminates wasted time from excess motion and
searching.
 Shine: Keep everything clean, every day. Doing this keeps things ready to be used
when needed. A clean workspace is a productive workspace, and Seiso literally means
“to clean or shine.” Clean the floors, the walls and the equipment and ensure all items
are restored to their designated place. Make sure the workstation is well lit. This should
be a part of your daily tasks and should not be postponed until idle time is available.

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 Standardize: Ensure conditions of work area do not return to the original, disorganized
state. Make the previous three S’s part of your standard procedures each day.
Implement them with the help of signs, banners, shadow boards, tool holders, etc. Make
sure all workers understand their responsibilities and are empowered to perform all of
the tasks.
 Sustain: Make a habit of properly maintaining correct procedures to avoid backsliding.
Implementing these steps is a continuous process. It is important to ensure that they are
done each day to prevent slipping into old habits. Commit to performing these steps
every shift and make sure that any changes to your product or process are compensated
for at your workstation and problems are alleviated as quickly as they are created.
1. Optimized Organization: The 5 pillars of workplace organization involves, to an

extent, decreasing potential time wasted looking for, determining how to use, and
returning items. Under the 5S philosophy, parts and tools are housed in a way that
makes them easily accessible and easy to utilize.
2. Efficiency: The 5S system drives companies to improve efforts aimed to

eliminate waste from the manufacturing process and overall enhance a company’s
bottom line. This is done through improving products and services, and thus
lowering costs.
3. Bigger Storage Density: Standard 5S implementation results in significant

reductions in the square footage of required space for existing operations. The
system involves getting rid of unnecessary items from the production facilities –
freeing up space that can be used more effectively.
4. Heightened Safety: “Waste” to be eliminated is defined broadly and includes

everything from carrying excess inventory to waste of unsafe conditions – like a
box of supplies left in a heavily-trafficked area potentially causing a worker to trip
and get injured.
5. Increased workplace morale: Making it routine to implement proper

procedures and discipline to avoid backsliding is one of the main objectives of the
system. This practice improves the chances of avoiding dark, dirty, disorganized
workplaces, which can foster lower morale among employees.
Environmental Issues
Environmental issues are the harmful effects of human activities on the environment. These
include pollution, over-population, waste disposal, climate change, global warming, greenhouse
effect, etc.
Various environment protection programs are being practised at the individual, organizational
and government levels with the aim of establishing a balance between man and environment.

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Some of the current environmental issues that require urgent attention are:
Climate Change
Climate change is a great concern in today’s scenario. This problem has surfaced in the last few
decades. Greenhouse gases are the major cause of climate change. Environmental changes have
several destructive impacts such as the melting of glaciers, change in seasons, epidemics, etc.
Global Warming
The burning of fossil fuels, emissions from the automobiles and chlorofluorocarbons add to the
greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This has led to an increase in earth’s temperature causing
environmental changes. This increase in temperature across the globe is known as global
warming.
Ozone Layer Depletion

The ozone layer is a layer of concentrated ozone gas. It protects us from the sun’s harmful
ultraviolet rays. This very important layer is being destroyed by CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons),
which are used in industries and everyday life (e.g. aerosol cans).
The chlorine in these compounds destroys the ozone layer. The hole in the ozone layer leaves
humans and wildlife exposed to the harmful UV rays resulting in several skin diseases including
cancer.
Water Pollution
The introduction of harmful substances into rivers, oceans, lakes and ponds, which changes the
physical, chemical or biological condition of the water is called water pollution. The polluted
water lacks oxygen and therefore the organisms die.
Water is the main source of life and therefore it is our prime duty to prevent it from any kind of
pollution.
Air Pollution
Air pollution is the result of emissions from the industries, automobiles, and increasing use of
fossil fuels. The gaseous emissions have added to an increase in the temperature of the earth. Not
only this, but it had also increased the risk of diseases among individuals.
Solid Waste Management

Solid-waste management is defined as the discipline associated with the generation, storage,
collection, transfer and transport, processing, and disposal of solid waste in a manner that it does
not have a harmful effect on the environment.
Deforestation
Deforestation is the depletion of trees and forests at an alarming rate. The trees provide us with
oxygen, several raw materials and also maintain the temperature of the earth. Due to the
depletion of trees for commercial purposes, there has been a drastic change in the earth’s climate.
Forests are an abode to a large number of wild animals and plants. Destruction of forests has led
to the elimination of a large number of plants and animal species affecting the biodiversity.

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Overpopulation
The earth’s population is increasing drastically. It is estimated to be more than seven billion. The
increasing population has led to a shortage of resources. If this continues, it will be very difficult
to sustain such a huge population. The other environmental issues including pollution, waste
management, deforestation, climate change and global warming are all associated with over-
population
Solutions to Environmental Issues

Following are some of the most common solutions to the environmental issue:
1. Replace disposal items with reusable items.

2. The use of paper should be avoided.
3. Conserve water and electricity.
4. Support environmental friendly practices.
5. Recycle the waste to conserve natural resources.
Environmental issues are a warning of the upcoming disaster. If these issues are not controlled,
there will soon be no life on earth.
Environmental stakeholders
Stakeholders are defined as the people and organizations who are involved in or affected by an
action or policy and can be directly or indirectly included in the decision making process
In environmental and conservation planning, stakeholders typically include government
representatives, businesses, scientists, landowners, and local users of natural resources. These
groups of stakeholders often have very different positions and values that may be difficult to
reconcile with each other and the planned project
Core Principles of Stakeholder Engagement*
Core principles of integrity, inclusion, deliberation, and influence apply in many situations where
conservation goals and human needs may conflict, and reflect the following:
• Integrity: when there is openness and honesty about the scope and purpose of engagement;
• Inclusion: when there is an opportunity for a diverse range of values and perspectives to be
freely and fairly expressed and heard;
• Deliberation: when there is sufficient and credible information for dialogue, choice, and
decisions; and when there is space to weigh options, develop common understandings, and to
appreciate respective roles and responsibilities; and
• Influence: when there is the opportunity for stakeholders to have input in designing how they
participate, when policies and services reflect the stakeholders’ involvement, and when the
stakeholders’ impact is apparent.
Key Factors Associated with Success in Externally-Driven Projects*
: 1. Identifying stakeholders. It is important to foster inclusiveness without having so many
stakeholders that it undermines the process.
2. Timing and degree of stakeholder engagement. Incorporating stakeholders early in the process
can be beneficial. The manner in which stakeholders are engaged can also have an impact on
overall project success; stakeholders should be appropriately involved while not overly burdened
by engagement.

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3. Recognizing and respecting stakeholder values and institutions. One important dimension of
engagement is the recognition and integration of the values and institutions of stakeholders—
keeping in mind that within a particular stakeholder group there can be a range of perspectives.
4. Stakeholder motivation for engagement. Understanding what drives stakeholders to participate
can help to ensure adequate resources for their continued participation. Motivations could be
economic or socially driven, which require different management approaches.
5. Effective leadership. Strong leadership and local champions are associated with project
success, making it important to foster and support leadership among local stakeholders.
6. Effective partnerships. Strong positive relationships between stakeholders and project
managers are important; trust can be built through open communication and transparency.
Unit 6
Monitor activities on environmental protection /programs
Environmental monitoring is a tool to assess environmental conditions and trends, support policy
development and its implementation, and develop information for reporting to national
policymakers, international forums and the public
Air Monitoring
Air pollutants are known for their adverse effects on human health and ecosystems. Some of
these pollutants also erode technical infrastructure and cultural monuments. Emissions of
nitrogen oxides and non-methane volatile organic compounds are the main causes of the
formation of ground-level ozone, which has adverse effects on human health and ecosystems.
Water Monitoring
Renewable freshwater resources have major environmental and economic value. Their
distribution varies widely among and within countries. Pressures on freshwater resources are
exerted by overexploitation and by pollution. Relating resources abstraction to renewal of stocks
is a central issue in sustainable freshwater resource management
Waste Monitoring
Waste represents a considerable loss of resources in the form of materials and energy. The
treatment and disposal of waste may cause environmental pollution and expose humans to
harmful substances and infectious organisms
Remote Sensing
Remote sensing can play an important role in monitoring and reporting on environmental
problems, in particular when the target of such observations is to assess pollutant effects at large
space scales over long time periods — i.e., at the regional, continental or even global scale over
the entire seasonal cycle for a number of years

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A monitoring and evaluation (M&E) plan is a document that helps to track and assess the results
of the interventions throughout the life of a program
Why develop a Monitoring and Evaluation Plan?
It is important to develop an M&E plan before beginning any monitoring activities so that there
is a clear plan for what questions about the program need to be answered.
It will help program staff decide how they are going to collect data to track indicators, how
monitoring data will be analyzed, and how the results of data collection will be disseminated
both to the donor and internally among staff members for program improvement.
Remember, M&E data alone is not useful until someone puts it to use! An M&E plan will help
make sure data is being used efficiently to make programs as effective as possible and to be able
to report on results at the end of the program
Use a variety of tools for gathering data from the stakeholders:

1. Small group facilitated workshops – in person.
2. Conference call interviews (ideally only when in person not possible)
3. One-on-one interviews in person.
4. Focus groups.
5. On-line surveys
Gathering feedback from stakeholders

Gathering feedback from stakeholders on environmental protection is a critical step in
developing effective environmental initiatives and policies. Stakeholders can include a wide
range of individuals and groups, such as government agencies, non-governmental organizations
(NGOs), local communities, businesses, and experts in the field. Here are some steps to
effectively gather feedback from stakeholders on environmental protection:
1. Identify Your Stakeholders:

- Determine who the relevant stakeholders are in your specific environmental protection
project. This may include government agencies, environmental groups, industry representatives,
local communities, and more.
2. Set Clear Objectives:

- Define the goals and objectives of gathering feedback. Are you seeking input on a specific
project, policy, or a broader environmental strategy?

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3. Plan Your Engagement Strategy:

- Develop a comprehensive engagement strategy that outlines how you will reach out to
stakeholders, what methods you will use, and the timeline for collecting feedback.
4. Select Communication Channels:

- Choose appropriate communication channels to engage with stakeholders. This can include
public meetings, surveys, online platforms, social media, email, or direct consultations.
5. Create a Feedback Survey or Questionnaire:

- If conducting surveys, design well-structured questions that address key environmental
concerns and gather actionable insights. Ensure that the questions are clear and easy to
understand.
6. Conduct Stakeholder Meetings:

- Organize meetings with key stakeholders, including face-to-face discussions, virtual
conferences, or town hall-style gatherings. Be prepared to listen actively and take notes.
7. Provide Information:
- Share relevant information about the environmental issues, policies, or projects under
consideration. Transparency helps stakeholders provide more informed feedback.
8. Collect and Analyze Feedback:

- Collect feedback through surveys, meetings, or other channels. Analyze the data to identify
common themes, concerns, and suggestions.
9. Engage in Dialogue:
- Engage in open and constructive dialogue with stakeholders to address their concerns and
clarify any misunderstandings.
10. Report Findings:

- Prepare a report summarizing the feedback received and the actions that will be taken based
on this feedback. Share this report with stakeholders and the public.
11. Incorporate Feedback:

- Use the feedback to refine and improve your environmental protection initiatives, policies, or
projects. Demonstrate a commitment to incorporating stakeholder input.
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12. Continuous Engagement:

- Maintain an ongoing relationship with stakeholders, keeping them informed about progress
and seeking their input on future developments.
13. Monitor and Evaluate:

- Continuously monitor the impact of your environmental protection efforts and evaluate their
effectiveness. Use this information to make necessary adjustments.
Remember that gathering feedback from stakeholders is not a one-time event but an ongoing
process that should be integrated into your environmental protection efforts. It helps build trust,
ensure accountability, and increase the chances of success in protecting the environment.
Monitoring and reporting environmental incidents is a crucial aspect of environmental
management and sustainability efforts. Timely and accurate reporting helps identify and address
issues that may harm the environment, public health, and safety. Here's a guide on how to
effectively monitor and report environmental incidents:
**1. Define Environmental Incidents:**

- Clearly define what constitutes an environmental incident in your organization. This can
include spills, leaks, emissions, habitat destruction, or any other event that has a negative impact
on the environment.
**2. Establish Reporting Procedures:**

- Develop clear and easy-to-follow procedures for reporting environmental incidents. Make
sure all employees and relevant stakeholders understand these procedures.
**3. Appoint Responsible Parties:**

- Designate individuals or teams responsible for monitoring and reporting incidents. This may
include environmental officers, health and safety personnel, or other relevant staff members.
**4. Create Incident Response Teams:**

- Formulate response teams with specific roles and responsibilities to address environmental
incidents promptly and effectively. Ensure they are trained and have access to necessary
resources and equipment.
**5. Implement Monitoring Systems:**

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- Install monitoring systems and sensors in critical areas to detect potential incidents early.
These systems can include air quality monitors, water quality sensors, and more.
**6. Regular Inspections and Audits:**

- Conduct regular inspections and environmental audits to identify potential hazards and non-
compliance issues before they escalate into incidents.
**7. Document Incidents:**

- When an environmental incident occurs, document it thoroughly. Include details like the date,
time, location, cause, impact, and any immediate actions taken.
**8. Assess Impact and Severity:**

- Evaluate the environmental, social, and economic impact of the incident. Determine its
severity and potential risks to public health and safety.
**9. Notify Regulatory Authorities:**

- If required by local laws or regulations, report the incident to relevant regulatory authorities.
Follow their specific reporting guidelines.
**10. Notify the Public and Stakeholders:**

- Depending on the severity and public interest, communicate the incident to the affected
community and stakeholders. Transparency is essential in building trust.
**11. Investigate the Root Cause:**

- Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the root cause of the incident. This will help
prevent similar incidents in the future.
**12. Implement Corrective Actions:**

- Develop and implement corrective and preventive actions to address the root cause and
mitigate future incidents.
**13. Monitor and Report Progress:**

- Keep stakeholders informed about the progress of incident response and remediation efforts.
Provide regular updates on corrective actions taken.

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**14. Review and Improve:**

- After each incident, conduct a post-incident review to identify lessons learned and areas for
improvement in your environmental management system.
**15. Compliance and Record-Keeping:**

- Ensure compliance with all applicable environmental laws and regulations. Maintain
accurate records of incidents, responses, and compliance efforts.
. Train and Educate:**

- Continuously train and educate employees and contractors about environmental policies,
procedures, and the importance of incident reporting.
Effective monitoring and reporting of environmental incidents are essential for maintaining
environmental stewardship, ensuring legal compliance, and protecting the well-being of
ecosystems and communities. Regularly reviewing and updating your incident response
procedures and prevention measures is key to minimizing environmental risks.
Unit 7
Analyze resource use
Resource allocation vs. resource utilization
These processes might sound similar, but they have some slight and important differences:
 Resource allocation is the process of assigning and managing assets in a manner
that supports an organization's strategic goals
 Resource utilization is the measure of how much of your available resources you are
currently using.
What are the benefits of resource utilization?
Resource utilization, ultimately, helps you make the most of your available resources:

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 Proper utilization of resources is important for maintaining productivity, because it

prevents staff from underperforming or being overburdened by workloads and burning
out.
 Projects can be managed with better visibility, reducing the risk of oversights
 Maximum utilization of resources gives you a better ROI

 It ensures that specific resources aren’t being over or under-utilized
 It allows PMs to be agile and reschedule resources as quickly as possible to avoid

problems surfacing or becoming worse
Resource utilization tips
With an intelligent resource management platform, project managers have dedicated tools to
approach and master resource utilization:
 Leverage visibility – projects may be run separately, but they affect each other. Instead of
viewing projects as separate entities, create a resource utilization plan that allows you
to view all resources. This way, you’ll be able to assess capacity and performance more
effectively.
 Beware of scope creep – projects will inevitably demand extra time and resources, and
it’s a project manager’s job to keep them from going over time or budget. Resource
management software can put all active projects front and center, utilizing resources
equally amongst them to put things in perspective.
 Compare booked hours with actual hours – it’s rare that a project ever runs according to
plan, so make sure to examine the hours booked in preparation for the project and actual
hours worked in real time. This will give you a chance to see if the project plan needs
adjusting before anything goes wrong.
 Always be prepared – visualize and run scenarios that will help you prepare for a change
of circumstances. If your budget changes or if you lose a resource, you’ll be able to adapt
more quickly.

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Resource consuming process
Some of the methods are product-oriented, such as life cycle assessment (LCA) and material
input per unit of service (MIPS), while others focus on spatial or social units, including materials
flow analysis (MFA), substance flow analysis (SFA), and ecological footprint (EF).
Resource efficiency means using the Earth's limited resources in a sustainable manner while
minimizing impacts on the environment. It allows us to create more with less and to deliver
greater value with less input.
Resource flow
The flow of natural resources in the economic and social system will go through four processes:
Stage I is that natural resources are mined to become available resource products; Stage II is that
resource products are converted into various types of commodities and consumed; Stage III is the
generation of waste during production and consumption, and the waste is partially recycled;
Stage IV is the process of unrecycled waste return
A flow resource is a resource which is neither renewable nor non-renewable, and must be used
where it occurs and replenishes itself.
Identifying environmental resource-consuming processes is a crucial step in assessing and

mitigating the environmental impact of various activities. These processes can be found in
industries, businesses, and everyday activities. Here's how you can identify them:
Resource consuming processes
1. **Conduct a Process Inventory:**
Start by creating a comprehensive list of all the processes involved in your organization or the
activity you want to assess. This could include manufacturing processes, transportation, energy
usage, waste disposal, and more.

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2. **Gather Data:**
Collect data on each process, including inputs, outputs, energy consumption, and resource usage.
You may need to use various data sources, such as utility bills, production records, or supply chain
information.
3. **Energy Consumption:**
Identify processes that consume a significant amount of energy. This could include manufacturing
equipment, heating and cooling systems, lighting, and transportation.
4. **Water Usage:**
Determine which processes require a substantial amount of water. This is especially important in
areas with water scarcity concerns.
5. **Raw Material Usage:**
Examine the use of raw materials, such as minerals, metals, and agricultural products, in your
processes. Identify which processes are resource-intensive.
6. **Waste Generation:**
Look at processes that generate waste, including solid waste, wastewater, and emissions.
Determine the quantity and composition of waste produced.
7. **Emissions:**
Identify processes that release greenhouse gases, air pollutants, or hazardous chemicals into the
environment. Assess their impact on air quality and climate change.

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8. **Transportation and Logistics:**
Analyze the transportation and logistics processes associated with your operations. Consider the
fuel consumption, emissions, and distance traveled.
9. **Supply Chain Assessment:**
Extend your analysis to include processes in your supply chain. Evaluate the environmental
impact of your suppliers and their processes.
10. **Lifecycle Assessment (LCA):**
Consider conducting a full lifecycle assessment of your product or service. This involves
analyzing the environmental impact from raw material extraction to manufacturing, distribution,
use, and disposal.
11. **Benchmarking:**
Compare your processes and resource consumption with industry benchmarks and best practices.
This can help identify areas where improvements are needed.
12. **Environmental Audits:**
Conduct environmental audits to assess compliance with environmental regulations and identify
areas of non-compliance or potential risks.
13. **Stakeholder Engagement:**
Involve employees, customers, and other stakeholders in the process. They may have valuable
insights into resource-consuming processes that you might have overlooked.

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14. **Technology and Process Innovation:**
Explore opportunities for adopting more resource-efficient technologies and practices. Research
and development can play a significant role in reducing resource consumption.
15. **Set Environmental Goals:**
Once you've identified resource-consuming processes, set clear environmental goals and targets
to reduce their impact. Implement strategies and initiatives to achieve these goals.
16. **Continuous Monitoring:**
Implement a monitoring system to track progress and ensure that resource-consuming processes
are improving over time.
Identifying and addressing resource-consuming processes is essential for organizations and

individuals alike to reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability efforts. It
requires ongoing commitment, data analysis, and a willingness to adopt more eco-friendly practices.
Analyzing environmental resource flows through different processes is an

important aspect of understanding the environmental impact of human
activities and industrial processes. This analysis typically involves assessing
the inputs, outputs, and transformations of various resources as they move
through a system or a process. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to
conduct such an analysis:
1. Define the Scope and Boundaries:

 Clearly define the system or process you want to analyze. This
could be a manufacturing process, an agricultural system, or an
entire supply chain.
2. Identify Resource Inputs:
 List all the resources that are input into the system or process.
This may include raw materials, energy sources, water, and any
other resources that are essential for the process to function.
3. Quantify Resource Inputs:
 Measure or estimate the quantities of each resource input. This
could be done in physical units (e.g., kilograms, liters,
megajoules) or monetary units (e.g., dollars).
4. Identify Resource Outputs:

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 List all the outputs generated by the process, including products,

emissions, waste, and byproducts.
5. Quantify Resource Outputs:
 Measure or estimate the quantities of each resource output. This
includes the amount of products produced, emissions released
(e.g., greenhouse gases, pollutants), and waste generated.
6. Resource Transformation and Flows:
 Analyze how resources are transformed within the process. This
involves understanding the chemical, physical, or biological
changes that occur as resources move through the system.
7. Resource Efficiency:
 Calculate resource efficiency metrics. This may involve
determining the resource utilization rate (e.g., how much of the
input resources end up as useful products) and resource losses
(e.g., resource losses due to waste or emissions).
8. Environmental Impact Assessment:
 Assess the environmental impact of the resource flows. This can
be done through life cycle assessments (LCA) or other
environmental impact assessment methods. Consider factors like
carbon emissions, water usage, and habitat disruption.
9. Comparison and Optimization:
 Compare the resource flows and environmental impacts of
different processes or alternative scenarios. Identify areas where
improvements can be made to reduce resource consumption and
environmental impact.
10. Sustainability Recommendations:
 Based on your analysis, make recommendations for improving
the sustainability of the process or system. This might involve
reducing resource inputs, optimizing resource use, or
implementing cleaner technologies.
11. Monitoring and Continuous Improvement:
 Implement monitoring systems to track the resource flows and
environmental impact over time. Continuously seek opportunities
for improvement and make adjustments as needed.
12. Reporting and Communication:
 Communicate the findings and recommendations of your analysis
to stakeholders, including management, regulators, and the
public. Transparency and communication are crucial for driving
change and sustainability initiatives.
13. Policy and Regulation Compliance:
 Ensure that the analyzed process or system complies with
relevant environmental regulations and standards.
Environmental resource flow analysis is a valuable tool for organizations and

policymakers to understand the environmental implications of their activities
and make informed decisions to minimize their ecological footprint. It helps
promote sustainable practices and the responsible use of resources
Unit 9

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Develop resource conservation plan
Resource conservation plan
A conservation plan is:
 A tool that helps manage your land profitably while protecting natural resources,
 Based on objectives or a desired future condition that you establish. The plan reflects
your decisions about the management of natural resources for your land,
 Created using a dynamic process which includes nine steps divided into three phases. The
process considers you as well as the natural resources you use or manage.
Benefits of a Plan
 Protection of soil and farm productivity
 Protection of water quality
 Improvement of soil fertility
 Management of soil moisture
 Saves you money over the long term as your land becomes more productive
 Ensures better natural resource quality for you, your animals and your neighbors
 Enhances open space and wildlife habitat
 Improves animal health
 Contributes to plant health and vigor for desired plants
 Makes your property more attractive and promotes good neighbor relations
 Promotes health and safety of your family
Nine Step Conservation Planning Process
The Natural Resources Conservation Service uses a nine step planning process whenever it
begins a project. The purpose of the steps is to develop and implement plans that protect,
conserve, and enhance natural resources within a social and economic perspective.
1 - Identify Problems and Opportunities

Everyone needs a reason to plan. Planning can start with a problem, an
opportunity, shared concerns, or a perceived threat. Initial opportunities and
problems are first identified based on readily available information provided
by the client(s).
2 - Determine Objectives
During this step, the stakeholders identify their objectives. A conservationist
guides the process so that it includes both the stakeholder needs and values
and the resource uses and on-site and off-site ecological protection.
Objectives may need to be revised and modified as new information is
learned later in the inventory and analysis stages. Objectives may not be

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finalized until Step 4 of the planning process.
3 - Inventory Resources
In this step, appropriate natural resource, economic and social information
for the planning area is collected. The information will be used to further
define the problems and opportunities. It will also be used throughout the
entire process to define alternatives and to evaluate the plan. It is important
that as much information as possible can be collected so that the plan will fit
both the needs of the landowner and the natural resources. Inventories can
range from a farmstead or small watershed all the way up to a complete
inventory of resources for a state or the entire nation
4 - Analyze Resource Data

Study the resource data and clearly define existing conditions for all of the
natural resources, including limitations and potential for the desired use. This
step is crucial to developing plans that will work for a landowner and their
land. It also provides a clear understanding of the baseline conditions will
help to judge how effective a project is after it has been put into place.
5 - Formulate Alternatives
The purpose of this step is to achieve the goals for the land, by solving all
identified problems, taking advantage of opportunities, and meeting the
social, economic, and environmental needs of the planning project.
conservation planning, we often can help landowners formulate alternatives
based on cost-sharing programs that help offset the financial expense of
implementing conservation practices.
6 - Evaluate Alternatives
Evaluate the alternatives to determine their effectiveness in addressing the
clients problems, opportunities and objectives. Attention must be given to
those ecological values protected by law or executive order.

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7 - Make Decisions
At this point the landowner chooses which project or plan will work best for
their situation. The planner prepares the documentation. In the case of an
areawide plan, public review and comment are obtained before a decision is
reached.
8 - Implement the Plan

Technical assistance is provided to help with the installation of adequate and
properly-designed conservation practices. At this point
in NRCS conservation planning, our conservation engineers step in and
make designs based on our technical standards. Also, assistance is given in
obtaining permits, land rights, surveys, final designs, and inspections for
structural practices.
9 - Evaluate the Plan

Conservation planning is an ongoing process, that continues long after the
implementation of a conservation practice. By evaluating the effectiveness of
a conservation plan or a practice within a plan, stakeholders can decide
whether to continue with other aspects of an overall areawide plan.
Developing resource conservation plans involves creating strategies and action plans to sustainably
manage and protect natural resources, such as water, energy, land, and biodiversity. These plans are
essential for environmental sustainability and ensuring that resources are available for current and
future generations. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to develop resource conservation plans:
1. **Identify the Resources:** Begin by identifying the specific natural resources that need
conservation. This could include water bodies, forests, energy sources, wildlife habitats, or any
other valuable resources in your area.
2. **Assess Current Conditions:** Conduct a thorough assessment of the current state of these
resources. Gather data on usage, depletion rates, pollution levels, and any existing conservation
efforts. Identify any threats or challenges that these resources face.
3. **Set Conservation Goals:** Define clear and measurable conservation goals. These goals
should be specific to each resource and should align with broader sustainability objectives. For
example, you might aim to reduce water consumption by 20% over the next five years.
4. **Engage Stakeholders:** Involve relevant stakeholders in the planning process. This could
include government agencies, community members, environmental organizations, businesses, and
experts in the field. Their input and support will be crucial throughout the planning and
implementation phases.

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5. **Develop Conservation Strategies:** Based on your goals and the assessment of current
conditions, develop strategies to conserve the identified resources. These strategies can vary widely
depending on the resource in question but may include:
- **Reducing Consumption:** Implement measures to reduce resource consumption, such as

using energy-efficient appliances or implementing water-saving practices.
- **Protecting Habitats:** Create or expand protected areas to safeguard critical habitats and
ecosystems.
- **Regulation and Policy:** Develop and enforce regulations and policies that promote resource
conservation, such as emissions controls or land-use regulations.
- **Education and Outreach:** Launch educational campaigns to raise awareness about the
importance of resource conservation and encourage sustainable practices among the community.
- **Technological Solutions:** Invest in technologies that can help conserve resources, such as
renewable energy sources or wastewater treatment systems.
6. **Allocate Resources:** Determine the financial and human resources required to implement
your conservation strategies. Create a budget and allocate resources accordingly. Seek funding
opportunities from government grants, private donations, or partnerships.
7. **Create an Implementation Timeline:** Develop a timeline that outlines when each

conservation strategy will be implemented. Assign responsibilities to individuals or teams, and
establish monitoring and evaluation processes to track progress.
8. **Monitor and Adapt:** Continuously monitor the effectiveness of your conservation efforts.
Collect data, analyze results, and be prepared to adapt your strategies if necessary. Regularly engage
with stakeholders and the community to keep them informed and involved.
9. **Report and Communicate:** Share progress reports and success stories with stakeholders and
the wider community. Effective communication is essential to maintain support for conservation
efforts and inspire others to participate.
10. **Review and Revise:** Periodically review and revise your conservation plan to ensure it
remains relevant and effective in addressing changing environmental conditions and priorities.
Resource conservation plans are dynamic documents that require ongoing commitment and
collaboration. By following these steps, you can develop and implement effective plans that
contribute to the sustainable management of natural resources in your region.
The determination of efficiency in the use or conversion of resources is

essential for businesses, organizations, and individuals to optimize their
processes, reduce waste, and improve sustainability. Efficiency can be
measured in various ways depending on the context, but some common
methods include:
1. Resource Efficiency Ratio (RER): This ratio compares the output or

benefit achieved with a given resource input. It can be expressed as:
RER = Output / Input

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For example, if a factory produces 1,000 units of a product using 1,000

kilograms of raw material, the RER would be 1 (1,000 / 1,000).
2. Energy Efficiency: This measures how effectively energy resources
are used. It can be calculated as:
Energy Efficiency (%) = (Useful Energy Output / Total Energy Input) x
100
For instance, if a vehicle consumes 10 gallons of gasoline to travel 300
miles, its energy efficiency would be calculated by comparing the
useful energy (distance traveled) to the total energy input (gasoline
energy content).
3. Labor Efficiency: In manufacturing or service industries, labor
efficiency measures how efficiently labor is utilized. It can be
calculated as:
Labor Efficiency (%) = (Actual Output / Standard Output) x 100
Standard output represents the expected or ideal output for a given
amount of labor input.
4. Material Efficiency: This assesses how effectively materials are used
in a process. It can be calculated as:
Material Efficiency (%) = (Actual Material Used / Standard Material
Required) x 100
Standard material required represents the amount of material needed
to produce a standard or expected output.
5. Water Efficiency: In water-intensive industries or for water resource
management, water efficiency measures how effectively water
resources are utilized. It can be calculated as:
Water Efficiency (%) = (Beneficial Water Use / Total Water Withdrawn) x
100
Beneficial water use refers to the portion of water withdrawn that is put
to productive use.
6. Financial Efficiency: For businesses, financial efficiency assesses
how effectively financial resources are utilized to generate revenue or
profit. Key financial efficiency ratios include Return on Investment
(ROI), Return on Assets (ROA), and Return on Equity (ROE).
7. Environmental Efficiency: This evaluates how efficiently resources
are used in a way that minimizes environmental impact, such as
reducing carbon emissions per unit of production.
8. Time Efficiency: In project management or manufacturing, time
efficiency measures how effectively time is utilized in completing tasks
or projects.
To improve resource efficiency, organizations can implement various

strategies such as process optimization, technology upgrades, waste
reduction, recycling, and adopting sustainable practices. Regular monitoring
and analysis of efficiency metrics are crucial for identifying areas where
improvements can be made and for setting benchmarks to track progress
over time.
Causes of low efficiency of use of resources
Low efficiency in the use of resources can have various causes, and these
causes often intersect and compound each other. The inefficiency can occur

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in different sectors, including industrial, agricultural, energy, and more. Here

are some common causes of low efficiency in the use of resources:
1. Lack of Technological Advancement: Outdated or inefficient

technologies can lead to resource wastage. Newer, more efficient
technologies can often use fewer resources to achieve the same or
better results.
2. Poor Infrastructure: Inadequate infrastructure can lead to resource
wastage. For example, a poorly maintained water distribution system
can result in significant water loss through leaks.
3. Inadequate Planning and Management: Lack of proper planning
and management can result in inefficient resource allocation and
utilization. This can be seen in urban planning, where poor zoning or
lack of public transportation can lead to resource inefficiencies.
4. Overconsumption: Excessive consumption of resources, often driven
by consumerism and lifestyles that prioritize waste, can lead to
resource depletion and inefficiency.
5. Inefficient Production Processes: Industrial and manufacturing
processes that are not optimized for resource efficiency can result in
significant waste. This includes processes that produce excessive
scrap, emissions, or energy consumption.
6. Ineffective Resource Pricing: When the true cost of resources is not
reflected in their market prices, there is less incentive for individuals
and businesses to use them efficiently. Subsidies, price distortions, or
externalization of costs can contribute to this issue.
7. Lack of Awareness: Many individuals and organizations may not be
aware of the environmental or economic consequences of their
resource use. This can lead to wasteful practices.
8. Resource Monopolies and Exploitation: In some cases, a few
entities may control access to certain resources and exploit them for
short-term gains without considering long-term sustainability or
efficient use.
9. Regulatory Barriers: Complex or outdated regulations can hinder
innovation and efficiency improvements. Conversely, effective
regulations can incentivize resource efficiency.
10. Cultural and Behavioral Factors: Cultural norms and
behaviors can contribute to resource inefficiency. For example, a
culture that values conspicuous consumption may lead to excessive
resource use.
11. Short-term Profit Focus: Many businesses prioritize short-term
profit over long-term sustainability. This can lead to resource depletion
and inefficiency.
12. Lack of Research and Development: Insufficient investment
in research and development to find more efficient ways to use
resources can stifle progress.
13. Geopolitical Factors: Resource-rich regions may experience
conflict and instability, which can disrupt resource supply chains and
lead to inefficiencies.
14. Climate Change and Environmental Degradation:
Increasing environmental pressures, such as climate change and
ecosystem degradation, can disrupt resource availability and
necessitate more efficient resource use.
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15. Inequality and Access Issues: Unequal access to resources

can lead to inefficient use, as some people or communities may not
have the means to use resources efficiently.
Efforts to improve resource efficiency often involve a combination of

technological innovation, policy changes, education and awareness
campaigns, and shifts in cultural and business practices. Sustainable
resource management is becoming increasingly important in the face of
global challenges like climate change and resource scarcity.
Increasing the efficiency of resource use is crucial for sustainability and cost-
effectiveness in various sectors, including businesses, governments, and
individuals. Here are some plans and strategies for improving resource
efficiency:
1. Energy Efficiency:
 Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances and lighting.
 Implement smart heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
(HVAC) systems.
 Invest in renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind
turbines.
 Conduct energy audits to identify and eliminate wasteful
practices.
2. Water Efficiency:
 Install low-flow faucets, toilets, and showerheads.
 Fix leaks promptly.
 Collect rainwater for landscaping and irrigation.
 Implement efficient irrigation systems with sensors.
3. Material Efficiency:
 Reduce waste through recycling and reusing materials.
 Implement lean manufacturing principles.
 Source materials locally to reduce transportation emissions.
 Design products for durability and ease of repair.
4. Transportation Efficiency:
 Promote public transportation and carpooling.
 Encourage telecommuting and flexible work schedules.
 Transition to electric or hybrid vehicles.
 Optimize transportation routes and logistics.
5. Supply Chain Optimization:
 Reduce excess inventory through just-in-time inventory
management.
 Collaborate with suppliers to reduce waste and energy
consumption.
 Consider alternative materials and suppliers that are more
resource-efficient.
6. Technology and Automation:
 Invest in technologies that improve resource efficiency, such as
IoT sensors and data analytics.
 Automate repetitive tasks to minimize resource wastage.
 Implement energy-efficient server and data center technologies.
7. Sustainable Practices:

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 Establish sustainability policies and goals.

 Educate employees and stakeholders about resource efficiency.
 Monitor and report progress regularly.
 Consider certifications like ISO 14001 for environmental
management.
8. Circular Economy:
 Implement circular economy principles by reusing,
remanufacturing, or recycling products.
 Design products with a focus on recyclability and longevity.
 Develop take-back programs for end-of-life products.
9. Water and Energy Audits:
 Conduct regular audits to identify areas of resource wastage.
 Use audit findings to develop action plans for improvement.
10. Incentives and Rewards:
 Offer incentives to employees and customers for resource-
efficient behaviors.
 Explore government incentives and grants for resource-efficient
initiatives.
11. Data-Driven Decision Making:
 Use data analytics to identify inefficiencies and make informed
decisions.
 Implement real-time monitoring systems to optimize resource
use.
12. Collaboration and Partnerships:
 Collaborate with industry peers and organizations to share best
practices.
 Partner with research institutions for innovation in resource
efficiency.
13. Regulatory Compliance:
 Stay updated on and comply with environmental regulations.
 Advocate for policies that promote resource efficiency.
Remember that the specific plans and strategies will vary depending on the
industry, organization, or individual circumstances. It's essential to
continually assess and adapt these plans to ensure ongoing improvements in
resource efficiency.

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Environmental Literacy Notes

information communication technology (Kisii University)

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ENVIRONMENTAL LITERACY NOTES

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What are 3 types of environments?

 Sound scientific information

CONTROL ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS

 National Environmental Management Authority

 National Environmental Complaints Committee,

Proper storage and handling of hazardous waste containers is an

In addition to understanding and following all federal, provincial and

1. Prominently display weather-resistant labels that indicate the

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Assignnment: Discuss DISPOSAL METHODS FOR HAZARDOUS WASTE

TYPES AND USES OF PPEs IN LINE WITH ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS

Examples of head protection equipment:

Examples of activities where you may need head protection:

II. Hand protection

Examples of hand protection equipment:

Activities requiring hand protection equipment:

 construction and outdoor work;

III. Eye and face protection

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 Safety glasses and goggles;

 working with lasers or power driven tools;

IV. Respiratory protection

Examples of hearing protection equipment:

VI. Foot protection

 Safety boots and shoes;

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VII. Body protection

Usually, body protection equipment is required in the following cases:

 For protection against weather conditions when working outdoors;

Examples of body protection equipment:

OCCUPATION SAFETY AND HEALTH STANDARDS OSHS

b) Provide information, instruction training and supervision

Section 13 general duties of the employee to say in class

a) Wear and use protective equipment

b) Report any hazardous situation

c) Report any accident or injury arising in the course of his work

d) Comply with the safety and health procedures

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What is Environmental Pollution?

The materials that cause pollution are of two types:

From another perspective, pollutants can be classified as follows:

According to their existence in nature:

According to the nature of disposal:

Types of Environment Pollution:

Some of the air pollutants, their sources, and effects:

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 Addition of certain substances such as organic, inorganic, biological and

Some of the sources are:

 Industrial and community wastewater: Industries like mining, iron and

 An excessive amount of mercury in water can cause Minamata disease in humans

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 Addition of unwanted substances to the soil which negatively affects physical,

10. Packaging Reduction:

12. Education and Awareness:

3. Management and Disposal Method:

5. International Hazardous Waste Classification: