We must all support EMA campaign

If we harm our environment through pollution  and other ills, we would not have bequeathed good health to future generations.
Chronicle yesterday carried an article in which the Environmental Management Agency announced it would soon start fining motorists found with fuel in plastic containers in their vehicles. The maximum fine for the offence, we are told, is $5 000.  
Garages have already started enforcing regulations that demand that people buying fuel bring their vehicles or use jerry cans. This is in line with Statutory Instrument 12 of 2007 of the Environmental Management Act Chapter 20:27, which deals with the handling of hazardous substances that are defined as “any substance whether solid, liquid or gas, which can be injurious to human beings, other organisms or the environment.”
EMA’s publicity officer Mr Steady Kangata said improper handling of hazardous substances made them dangerous to people, animals and the environment.
“Plastic containers are not suitable for transporting fuel.  EMA is on a campaign to educate the public about the numerous dangers and soon, the law will be enforced,” said Mr Kangata.
We believe the EMA campaign is meant  for the good of the public and urge the public to co-operate. Zimbabwe was hit by a fuel shortage some years ago and the resultant illegal trade in fuel, especially petrol, led to the injury and death of many people who kept fuel in their houses for sale.
Many trucks could be seen driving from neighbouring countries laden with fuel in plastic containers and what EMA is now doing is to raise awareness on the dangers of such improper handling.
Service station owners are also aware that as part of their licensing requirements, they are not allowed to sell fuel to customers who bring plastic containers.
While it may be convenient for public transporters to carry five-litre containers for refuelling purposes now and then, it is important to point out that we are better off enduring inconvenience in safety than to invite danger into our lives and environment in the name of convenience.
Our plea to garages and their customers is that they should abide by the regulations and avoid spills that can even contaminate our underground water sources. It should not be EMA’s responsibility only but everyone should be involved though EMA should take a leading role so that the public is educated to understand the dangers of not using approved containers to carry fuel. After such an educational campaign, that would cover even other substances such as pesticides that litter                the streets, those that would still resist the legal route could then be fined for breaching laid down regulations, and taken to court if they fall foul of the law again. We get almost everything from our environment and the more we take care of it responsibly the better for ourselves and future generations.