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Professionals in the environment sector are poised for significant benefits if the proposed Environment Institute of Kenya Bill, 2023, currently under review by the National Assembly Committee on Environment, Forestry, and Mining, is enacted into law.

Bill has received praise from mandarins in the sector, who see it as a major step forward. One of the key benefits highlighted is the establishment of a professional body recognised by law to offer members a sense of legal recognition and protection.

According to Environment Institute of Kenya chief executive Ronald Kimutai, this will safeguard against malpractices, requiring members to adhere to ethical standards and professional regulations.

“Membership in a legally recognised professional body enhances credibility and trust in the eyes of clients, employers, and the public. It signifies that members have met certain standards of competency, education, and ethical conduct,” Kimutai stated.

Furthermore, the Environment Institute of Kenya will provide members with access to resources such as professional development opportunities, training programmes, networking events, and industry-specific information.

This support will help members stay updated on the latest developments in their field and advance their careers.

Bill, which was reviewed by the Budget and Appropriation Committee in July 2023 and approved, is now at the pre-publication stage.

Recently, the National Assembly Committee on Environment, Forestry, and Mining, chaired by Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria, convened a meeting with Nadragua MP George Gachagua, sponsor of the Bill.

 In his submission, Gachagua, an expert on environmental matters, explained that the Bill aims to provide for the registration and regulation of standards and practice by professionals within the environmental sector. He highlighted that the proposed Institute is extensive in its scope, aiming to regulate professionals in the field of environmental conservation and management.

Certain clauses

During the meeting, members encouraged Gachagua to review certain clauses in the Bill related to registration, licensing, membership, financial provisions, and qualifications to enhance its effectiveness.

If passed into law, the Environment Institute of Kenya Bill, 2023, will register, regulate, and exercise general supervision and control over the professional development and practice of environmental professionals in the country.

Additionally, it aims to promote and advance the practice of integrated environmental assessment focusing on sustainable development, facilitate the acquisition of environmental knowledge through collaboration with relevant parties, and promote, maintain, and advance the highest professional standards and best practice in the field of sustainable development for the public good.