Environmental agency clears 103 projects focusing on green growth, sustainability in Zambia

The Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) says it has approved 103 development projects, including key initiatives advancing circular economy and green growth in the country.

ZEMA Manager for Corporate Affairs Ruth Kamwi said this was done during the May 2026 sitting of the Environmental Assessments Committee of the 6th ZEMA Board.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Thursday, Kamwi said out of 106 projects considered, 103 received approval.

Key approvals include a total of 300 Mega Watts of solar energy projects, a Plastic Manufacturing and Recycling Plant in Lusaka to promote waste reduction and resource recovery, and a Tile Adhesive Manufacturing Plant in Lusaka supporting sustainable construction practices.

Others are a Used Oil and End-of-Life Tyres Recycling Plant in Kyangozhi, Kalumbila District, North-Western Province, designed to convert hazardous waste into refined industrial fuel oil for heavy equipment.

“These projects advance climate action through cleaner energy, waste-to-energy solutions, and resource efficiency,” Kamwi said.

Also approved is the rehabilitation and upgrading to bituminous standard of 65km of the Chipata–Chadiza Road (D128), including 15km of Chipata township roads and 5km in Chadiza, Eastern Province, by the Road Development Agency (RDA).

She stated that the project would enhance climate resilience and reduce emissions from vehicle delays and wear.

Kamwi said the approvals aligned with this year’s World Environment Day theme: “Accelerating Zambia’s Climate Action for Green Growth and Sustainability.”

“Each project underwent rigorous review to ensure environmental safeguards, climate resilience, and sustainable resource use,” she said.

By sector, the ZEMA Committee approved 46 in Mining and Mineral Processing, 20 in Manufacturing and Processing, 10 in Infrastructure Development, 21 in Energy, 5 in Agriculture and Forestry, and 1 in Tourism.

Three projects were deferred.

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