The role of local Community Environmental literacy on Small scale Quarrying in Narok Central Division Narok County, Kenya

Abstract

Uncontrolled small scale quarrying activities is a major problem globally. In Kenya; small scale quarrying has adversely contributed to environmental degradation in most of the areas where it takes place. This study seeks to investigate the role of local community environmental literacy in small scale stone quarrying in Narok Central division with the aim of increasing people’s awareness on the use of quarry rehabilitation methods for small scale quarrying in the area as well as help the residents to foster environmental conservation for sustainable development. Significantly, quarrying in Narok County is the main activity that has not been sustainably exploited to benefit and improve the lives of the inhabitants who live in abject poverty. Community awareness on environmental conservation has not been adequately investigated in the area and rehabilitative quarrying practices have not been put into action too. It is in this context therefore that the study seeks to investigate the existence of community based environmental literacy in Narok Central division and how it is important in minimizing the impacts of small scale quarrying on the environment. The study will also seek to identify the effects of quarrying and possible rehabilitation measures. Due to the cosmopolitan nature of quarry workers, the study further intends to investigate their perception towards community based environmental literacy in environmental conservation. The study will be carried out in Narok Central division among the workers and other stakeholders within the quarry sites. Data will be collected through administration of questionnaires, interview schedules and direct observation and visits to quarry sites. There will also be collection of secondary data from books, print media and online resources using Google search engine. Statistical data analysis shall include mathematical presentation and analysis of data from population and quarry sites count through formulation of graphs and charts to arrive at the conclusions. Bar-charts shall be used to compare the level of environmental degradation within the quarry sites and the income generated to quarry workers.