Today September 20th is now officially recognized as World Cleanup Day, by the United Nations. This initiative unites people from all countries of the world to tackle the waste crisis through collective action and to tackle the pressing issue of waste management to promote a cleaner, healthier environment.
This is largely because, the world is drowning in trash. Every year, over 2 billion tons of municipal solid waste are generated, with alarming consequences for our oceans, wildlife, and human health. Plastic pollution alone kills over 100,000 marine animals annually, while toxic waste contaminates our air, water, and soil.
If we look closer at home, Kampala generates over 1,500 tons of waste daily, with only 30% collected and disposed of properly; Waste contaminates Lake Victoria, Nakivubo Channel, and other water bodies; Poor waste management spreads diseases like cholera, typhoid, and malaria; Urban planning: Inadequate waste management affects city aesthetics and planning.
World Clean Up Day is a call to action, to mobilize people from all walks of life to take ownership of their environment and make a difference. But, World Clean Up Day should not be just a one-day event; it’s a movement towards a trash-free planet. By working together, we can:
- Raise awareness about the impact of waste on the environment and human health.
- Mobilize communities to take action and clean up public spaces.
- Promote sustainable waste management practices and reduce waste generation.
- Encourage governments and businesses to adopt environmentally-friendly policies.
- Spread awareness on social media using #WorldCleanUpDay
Every small action counts, and together, we can create a significant impact.
“LET’S CLEAN UP OUR WORLD, ONE PIECE OF TRASH AT A TIME.”
By Dr. Daisy Owomugasho
