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In a world grappling with the urgent need to combat climate change, innovative measures are emerging across different industries. The field of conservation is no exception, as the Africa Climate Summit being held in Nairobi brings together delegates from across the continent to address pressing environmental issues, including climate change and conservation efforts, as well as immerse themselves in Kenya’s rich biodiversity through visits to the Nairobi National Park. Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is constitutionally mandated - through the Wildlife Management and Conservation Act (WCMA) 2013, to protect the country's precious biodiversity while also reducing the carbon footprint on ecosystems.
An integral part of this Summit is the unique and eco-friendly experience provided by Chameleon Solutions LTD; a green energy solution concern established over 14 years ago. Chameleon Solutions LTD have played a pivotal role in transforming the automotive industry, by developing innovative Electric Vehicle (EV) technology. One of their remarkable achievements is the conversion of conventional cars into electric vehicles, extending their lifespan and drastically reducing emissions. With a range of 100 to 150 km for small cars post-transformation, EVs are a sustainable alternative to traditional gas-guzzlers.
As the Africa Climate Summit kicked off on September 4th, 2023, delegates were given the opportunity to embark on a game drive through Nairobi National Park in solar-powered, silent, zero-exhaust fumes Safari EVs which don’t interfere with wildlife, shedding light on the vital role that electric cars play in conservation efforts, and being a practical example of how committed the Kenyan government is to collaborate in confronting the current climate crisis.
Chameleon Solutions LTD, one of the organizations providing solutions to the current global climate crisis, showcased their electric cars during the Africa Climate Summit to demonstrate the potential of sustainable transportation in protected conservation areas. One of the remarkable aspects of these EVs is their near-silent operation. Conventional diesel safari vehicles often produce noise pollution, interfering with protected areas’ delicate ecosystems and wildlife. Electric cars run quietly, ensuring a serene environment for both the animals and visitors. This reduction in noise pollution significantly enhances the overall experience of a game drive in the park.
Nairobi National Park is a haven for a diverse range of wildlife, including endangered species like lions and giraffes. Traditional safari vehicles powered by internal combustion engines produce noise pollution that can stress wildlife and disrupt their natural behavior. Electric cars, on the other hand, emit almost no noise, allowing animals to thrive undisturbed. This reduction in noise pollution is a vital component of responsible eco-tourism, enabling visitors to observe animals at close range and in their natural habitat without causing harm.
Another significant advantage of electric cars as explained by Riyaz Mustafa, Chameleon Solutions LTD representative at KWS headquarters is their zero-emission nature. In contrast with conventional vehicles, electric cars emit no harmful gasses like carbon dioxide from their tailpipes. This has a profound impact on conservation areas like Nairobi National Park, where air quality is critical to the health of both wildlife and ecosystems.
By using electric cars, KWS and other conservation organizations can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of their operations. This not only helps combat climate change, a major threat to biodiversity, but also ensures that the very landscapes being preserved remain unaffected by pollution.
KWS has long been at the forefront of wildlife conservation efforts and recognizes that climate change poses a significant challenge to this mission. As temperatures rise and weather patterns become unpredictable, wildlife habitats are under threat and the balance of ecosystems is disrupted. By embracing sustainable practices like the use of EVs, KWS is setting an example for other conservation organizations across the continent. This proactive approach ensures that conservation areas remain resilient in the face of climate-related challenges.
To fully adapt to this sustainable transport model, infrastructural development is necessary within conservation areas. Solar powered charging stations are a sustainable source of energy for electric vehicles. Charging an EV takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the engine type, making it a convenient and practical choice for game drives. This will not only ensure they remain operational even in remote areas but also encourage safari operators to choose eco- friendly options when visiting protected areas.
The Africa Climate Summit delegates’ game drive through Nairobi National Park using Chameleon Solutions LTD EVs was a testament to the positive impact of sustainable mobility on conservation efforts. EVs not only provide a silent and non-intrusive way to explore wildlife habitats but also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fighting climate change.
EVs showcase the remarkable synergy between conservation and sustainable technology. KWS's commitment to reducing its ecological footprint and Chameleon Solutions LTD's innovative EVs stand out as a shining example of how institutions can collaborate to adopt and promote green solutions to protect our planet's natural treasures.
