In today’s world, the words sustainability and sustainable development are thrown around so often that they have largely lost their true meaning.
These terms, which should represent a commitment to protecting nature, have instead become tools of deception and buzzwords used by corporations, investors and developers to push through projects that can harm the environment.
This phenomenon, known as greenwashing, has infiltrated Namibia’s development landscape, and if we do not act now, we risk losing the very ecosystems that sustain our lives.
For years, we have witnessed companies and development projects claim to uphold sustainability.
Their proposals are filled with promises of eco-friendly operations, low-carbon footprints, and nature-based solutions.
They talk about mitigating environmental damage and working towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
But once these projects are approved, reality presents a different picture.
Forests are cleared, rivers are polluted and wildlife habitats and corridors are destroyed.
Sustainability promises were just words on paper designed to gain approval but never meant to be implemented.
‘DESTRUCTIVE DEVELOPMENT’
Namibia, with its rich biodiversity and fragile ecosystems cannot afford to fall for these falsehoods any longer.
Our deserts, savannahs, rivers and coastline are not just resources to be exploited; they are living systems that support all life, including ours.
Yet, time and again, we see large-scale developments that disrupt ecological balance in the name of economic progress.
Take, for example, mining operations that promise responsible extraction but leave behind devastated landscapes.
Or massive agricultural projects that pledge climate-smart farming yet deplete our water sources and destroy indigenous plant species.
Even our urban areas are expanding at the expense of natural habitats, replacing them with concrete jungles that increase heat stress and pollution.
This is not sustainable development, it is destructive development disguised as sustainability.
If Namibia is to truly protect its environment, we must hold developers accountable.
Our government, non-governmental organisations, and every Namibian citizen must demand transparency and genuine sustainability.
Government agencies must go beyond approving proposals; they must monitor them and ensure that companies keep their promises.
Projects that violate environmental laws should be shut down immediately.
Instead of trusting companies to regulate themselves, independent environmental experts must conduct frequent inspections to expose greenwashing.
Local communities and everyone affected by these projects must have a stronger voice.
No project should be approved without genuine public consultation and consent.
Instead of allowing development that exploits nature, we must support initiatives that restore and coexist with the environment.
TIME FOR ACTION
Renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and conservation-based tourism are better alternatives.
As American author Guy McPherson wisely said, “If you think the environment is less important than the economy, try holding your breath while counting your money.”
The economy cannot thrive without a healthy environment. If we continue to allow greenwashing to justify environmental destruction, future generations will inherit a barren, lifeless Namibia.
The time to act is NOW.
Let us reject fake sustainability. Let us stand up for the land, water, air and all living beings.
True development does not come at the cost of nature but works in harmony with it. Namibia must wake up and defend its environment before it’s too late.
- Johannes Nuuyoma is passionate about environmental conservation and advocates for the protection of Namibia’s ecosystems and biodiversity. Email: johnnuuyoma24@gmail.com
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