Jatropha project threatens Kenya's wildlife
A project proposed by Kenya Jatropha Energy has received resistance from environmental groups as the implementation of more jatropha plantations for use as fuel threatens the existence of rare birds.
The jatropha plantation requires the destruction of the Dakatcha woodland forest in Malindi town, Kenya, an area used by native birds for breeding.
50,000 hectares of Trust Land will be set aside for the project, despite jatropha being banned in South Africa and other areas after it was found to be poisonous to humans.
Paul Matiku, executive director of Nature Kenya, said: ‘Nature Kenya opposed the growing of the plant…because this plant is poisonous…and likely to produce more greenhouse gases.’
Matiku went on to urge the Kenyan government to support the fight against climate change.
‘Nature Kenya recognises the government of Kenya’s concern about climate changes, its efforts to promote alternative energy technologies and is requesting the government to urgently develop policy and regulations regarding the growing of commercial biofuels.’
According to Matiku the company behind the project have begun the clear the land and cutting down trees local to the area before it has met the terms of the environmental assessment reports.
The jatropha plantation requires the destruction of the Dakatcha woodland forest in Malindi town, Kenya, an area used by native birds for breeding.
50,000 hectares of Trust Land will be set aside for the project, despite jatropha being banned in South Africa and other areas after it was found to be poisonous to humans.
Paul Matiku, executive director of Nature Kenya, said: ‘Nature Kenya opposed the growing of the plant…because this plant is poisonous…and likely to produce more greenhouse gases.’
Matiku went on to urge the Kenyan government to support the fight against climate change.
‘Nature Kenya recognises the government of Kenya’s concern about climate changes, its efforts to promote alternative energy technologies and is requesting the government to urgently develop policy and regulations regarding the growing of commercial biofuels.’
According to Matiku the company behind the project have begun the clear the land and cutting down trees local to the area before it has met the terms of the environmental assessment reports.
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