Environmental diplomacy and national interest: a case study of the imported eucalyptus trees in Kenya, 1997-2010

Abstract

Environmental security has become of greatest concern not only in Africa but also globally. 'The Coming Anarchy' an Atlantic monthly article by Kaplan popularized the idea that environmental pressures can contribute directly or indirectly to conflict therefore bringing about environmental insecurity. As a result, causes of environmental degradation have been taken seriously and most nations are working towards sustainable development. Therefore, it has been every country's interest to cub environmental threats by participating in the international conventions and introducing legal system in their respective countries. Afforestation and reforestation are environment friendly and enhances the fight against climate change in the world. However, some countries have gone ahead to introduce genetically modified tree species for various purposes. According to the research carried out using questionnaires it has been found out that the eucalyptus trees imported to the country have been known to be of economic value but on the other hand the tree has been proved to be unfavorable to the environment in some regions in Kenya.