Lusaka June 10, 2025 ZANIS — European Union (EU) has commended the government for its zero-tolerance to mining pollution.
Speaking during a partnership dialogue meeting, EU Ambassador to Zambia, Karolina Stasiak, says that Zambia’s target of increasing copper production will see a rise in mining licenses, which calls for strong preventive measures in mining pollution.
Ms Stasiak further emphasised on the need for the mining industry to act responsibly and respect the laws of Zambia.
“Our leaders committed that the EU would support enhancing the role of Zambian forests in national development, and address challenges related to deforestation, climate change and biodiversity loss,” noted Ms Stasiak.
She also encouraged Zambia to submit ambitious national determined contributions during the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference, which is set to take place this year.
Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Mike Mposha, added that the government is committed to reviewing policies and legislations in order to sharpen focus towards the promotion of green growth, environmental sustainability and climate action.
Mr Mposha stated that his ministry will continue to address other significant environmental pollution cases affecting air, water, land and ecosystems across the country through expanded monitoring systems and strengthened enforcement capacities.
He said his ministry has finalised the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) implementation framework, which operationalises Zambia’s updated climate commitments.
And the Minister has called for more support from the World Bank for institutional capacity to effectively implement government’s initiatives to improve mining monitoring by the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA).
Speaking when a delegation from the World Bank led by Regional Director for Sustainable Development and Climate Change, Anna Wellenstein, called on him this afternoon, Mr Mposha said the country has put in place a regulatory framework to support the green growth agenda.
He added that a strengthened institutional framework will help to achieve this agenda.
The Minister has thanked the World Bank for their support in the sector through various programmes such as the Transforming Landscapes for Resilience and Development in Zambia TRALARD Project.
Mr Mposha noted that with World Bank support, the ministry is now able to provide accurate weather forecasts for farmers and the general public.
World Bank Regional Director for Sustainable Development and Climate Change, Anna Wellenstein, has committed to continue supporting Zambia in the development of the sector.
