THE Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) has applauded President Edgar Lungu for the commitment he has shown towards the protection of the environment in Zambia.
ZEMA Director-General, John Msimuko, said the president’s vigorous stance on environmental protection was key to ensuring more support to the cause.
He added that all industries should respond to the presidential commitment and directive by ensuring adherence to the Constitution of Zambia as amended by Act No. 2 of 2016 and the Environmental Management Act No. 12 of 2011.
Mr. Msimuko sounded the applause in a speech he delivered at the official opening of the 2018 Copperbelt Mining, Agriculture Industrial, Networking and Enterprise (CAMINEX) Expo in Kitwe recently.
He also urged the private sector to adopt smart business models that are environmentally sustainable.
“The business community needs to adopt strategies that promote cleaner production and waste minimization. Mining companies need to undertake activities in a sustainable manner to mitigate environmental degradation,” he said.
“This is necessary as it harmonies the various sectoral and environmental needs of present generations without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It is in fulfillment of the aspirations of the Seventh National Development Plan (7NDP) and Zambia’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goals,” he said .
He said ZEMA would continue to work with other regulatory agencies in attaining the common goal of protecting human health and the environment in line with the Presidential commitment.
Mr. Msimuko noted that the Agency reiterates its obligation to safeguard the environment and natural resources and the health of its citizenry.
He added that the expo, which was held under the theme “Re-positioning for Environmentally Sustainable Growth”, echoed national values and sustainable development principles.