The article highlights the increasing emphasis on sustainability in Kenya, which has shifted from being merely a part of corporate social responsibility to a significant line item in capital expenditure budgets by 2025. Companies are now grappling with the harsh economic realities of implementing environmentally friendly practices, which often come with substantial up-front financial investments. Despite the growing recognition of the long-term benefits of sustainability, the immediate financial burden can be overwhelming, particularly for businesses in a country characterized by high operational costs and price sensitivity.

The author notes that various sectors, particularly manufacturing, are being mandated to adopt practices that include energy self-generation and wastewater treatment systems as part of compliance with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks. While the push towards a greener economy is gaining momentum, the thrust has revealed significant economic dilemmas for businesses regarding how to manage and distribute sustainability-related costs. The discussion is evolving from simply acknowledging the importance of sustainability to a deeper inquiry into the economic implications and strategies for absorbing these costs.

In conclusion, as Kenya strives to meet its climate commitments, the article raises critical questions about the impact of high energy costs on competitiveness and the broader implications for industries that must balance sustainability with economic viability. The challenges presented by this transition could hinder some firms while necessitating innovative solutions to ensure the shift towards greener practices is manageable for the economy overall.