The Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) has expressed concern over the poor allocation of funds towards environmental protection in the 2025 national budget.
CTPD Researcher- Climate Change and Environment Solomon Mwampikita said while there has been a slight increase in allocation to ZMK1.48 billion in 2025 from ZMK1.45 billion in 2024, the resources do not reflect the necessary allocation to address the pressing environmental challenges Zambia is facing.
Mr Mwampikita noted that the country is grappling with severe environmental issues, including habitat loss, water and air pollution, and disease, exacerbated by unsustainable practices in agriculture, mining, and energy production.
He stated that the effects of climate change, such as droughts, floods, and extreme weather events, further compound the challenges.
He noted that despite the growing urgency of the issues, the government's allocation at 0.7 percent of the entire budget to environmental protection remains inadequate.
He said this is alarming given the devastating effects of climate change and its associated risks like disease outbreak earlier and drought situation being experienced.
CTPD has since called upon the government to take corrective measures to address this shortfall in the national budget.
Mr Mwampikita has also urged the government to expedite the development of a comprehensive legal framework on climate change, which will enable the country to effectively tap into international climate finance mechanisms, such as carbon trading and other green financing initiatives.
He said the government should enhance the enforcement of environmental laws, particularly the Forest Act of 2015 saying Stricker enforcement of this law is crucial to curb deforestation and protect ecosystems.
Mr Mwampikita added that to promote sustainable practices in mining and agriculture, the government should strengthen regulations and enforcement that will help mitigate pollution and protect water catchment areas.
No comments:
Post a Comment