This archive report was first published on 9 July 2021.
On July 9, 2021, the World Rally Championship Safari Rally Kenya made history by hosting the most successful event on the continent in the last five years, while also setting a high standard for environmental protection.
The Safari Rally, held in a wildlife reserve area, demonstrated the organizers' commitment to protecting the environment amidst global concerns about climate change caused by irresponsible plastic waste disposal and fossil fuel emissions.
Through its organizers, the Safari Rally showed the world that it was possible to host a successful event while protecting the environment. The organizers educated spectators on the risks of irresponsible plastic disposal and littering, ensuring that the championship venue was litter-free throughout and after the event.
Mr. Phineas Kimathi, the Chief Executive Officer of WRC Safari Rally Kenya, shared the organizers' commitment to environmental protection in the official WRC Safari Rally Environmental Policy. He called upon all stakeholders, including organizers, competitors, sponsors, suppliers, and spectators, to be responsible for their waste disposal and to promote a litter-free venue.
The Safari Rally was guided by the FIA Environmental Sustainability Framework guidelines, which ensured that the event complied with internationally acceptable standards. The organizers formed an environmental committee comprising key stakeholders, including Kenya Wildlife Services, conservancies, National Environmental Management Authority, Naukuru County, and WRC Safari Rally Kenya officials.
During a post-rally tour of the rally route, stakeholders confirmed their satisfaction with the planning, execution, and outcome of the environmental sustainability measures. The venue was filled with signage reminding people to dispose of waste responsibly and promote a litter-free venue. The organizers provided enough trash bins for spectators to sort and separate waste, and cleaning teams were available to pick up litter during the event.
After the championship, tonnes of plastic waste were carried out of the venue, leaving the place just as it was found. The WCR Safari Rally did not only win the hearts of Kenyans but also put Kenya on the global competitive map of environmental protection and co-existence with nature.
