Can we be generation of environmental recovery in Zim?

The weight of a harsh reality settled upon the world as it observed World Environment Day on Wednesday. This year’s theme, “Reviving lands for a brighter future,” resonated deeply in Zimbabwe, a country grappling with the consequences of human impact on the environment.

We stand at the precipice of the Anthropocene, the sixth mass extinction event, a chilling testament to the destructive power of human activity.

Countless species vanish daily, painting a bleak picture. Yet, amid this darkness, a sliver of hope emerges: the potential for humanity to become the generation that drives environmental recovery.

Cicada, a Zimbabwean land management company, stands at the forefront of this fight. They understand the delicate balance of our planet and the truth that harming nature ultimately harms ourselves.

“At Cicada,” the company stated in statement published on its Linkedin page, “we operate with a deep respect for our environment, placing soil health, land management, and water conservation at the core of our mission.”

This dedication is evident in their impressive commitment to conservation — a remarkable 30 percent of their land is actively managed for this purpose, with meticulous documentation of progress year after year. Their responsible land use sets a powerful example for others to follow.

One of Cicada’s most impactful environmental initiatives aligns with the ambitious “4 per 1 000” Initiative of the Paris Agreement. This programme challenges land managers to achieve a seemingly small yet impactful increase — 0,4 percent — in soil organic carbon annually.

Cicada explains, “A 1 percent increase in soil organic carbon translates to a staggering 350 cubic meters more water held per hectare — a critical benefit for drought resilience.”

In a region often facing water scarcity, this seemingly insignificant rise has profound consequences.

Additionally, enriched soil acts as a powerful carbon sink, sequestering 20 tonnes of carbon and further contributing to environmental health.

The positive impact of these practices is readily apparent at Cicada’s Makandi and Katiyo Estates, where cover cropping, mulching, and composting are standard procedures, ensuring no bare earth is exposed between trees. These ongoing efforts are a testament to the transformative power of responsible land management.

Desertification, a complex and multifaceted environmental threat, also demands Cicada’s attention.

Their approach acknowledges the need for a multi-pronged strategy.

They actively pursue reforestation efforts, promote land preservation techniques, and tirelessly develop sustainable fuel sources. While Cicada promises to share the full story of their initiatives in the near future, one innovative project stands out — the Border Timbers Charter Estate sawmill. Here, sawdust waste is ingeniously transformed into over 100 tonnes of briquettes monthly.

These briquettes serve as an environmentally friendly alternative fuel source, a small but significant step towards reducing reliance on unsustainable practices.

This World Environment Day, Cicada stand as a beacon of hope, urging the Zimbabwean community to join them on a journey towards environmental recovery.

“We are not powerless in the face of climate change,” they argue.

“By choosing to exist in harmony with our environment, we can collectively create a voice for a greener future.”

The call to action issued by Cicada is a powerful one. They urge individuals to embrace simple practices that can have a significant impact.

“Composting food scraps and yard waste, mulching around plants to retain moisture, and promoting biodiversity in gardens and fields are all steps in the right direction,” Cicada stated.

Additionally, opting for sustainable fuel alternatives like the briquettes produced by Cicada can further contribute to a healthier environment.

Cicada’s message is clear: collective action is the key to ensuring a brighter future for Zimbabwe’s land.

By embracing responsible land management practices, promoting environmental consciousness, and working together as a community, we can become the generation that turns the tide on environmental degradation and ushers in an era of environmental recovery.

The opportunity lies before us, and the time to act is now. Will we be the generation that chooses a path towards a greener future, or will we continue down the path of destruction? The choice is ours, stated Cicada. — Online