Environment PS nominee Festus Ngeno has proposed the electric fencing of key water towers to protect them from encroachment.
Ngeno cited Mau and Aberdares as some of the critical ones that need urgent protection.
"They need to be protected," he said.
Ngeno appeared before Departmental Committee on Environment, Forestry and Mining.
He seeks to replace the outgoing PS Chris Kiptoo who has since been nominated to Treasury.
The nominee said his ministry will collaborate with county governments under an intergovernmental framework to sustainably manage the towers.
There are 18 gazetted water towers most of which are threatened by human activities.
Water towers are critical for the socioeconomic development of the country.
The nominee said he is passionate about the environment.
On air quality, Ngeno said it is a devolved function.
Ngeno said he is aware of regulations already forwarded to the national assembly by the National Environment Management Authority to tackle the challenge.
The nominee said polluter pay principle is in the process of managing challenges brought about by waste.
He said to solve some of the challenges associated with emissions from transport sector, electric vehicles will be used.
On governments bid to enhance tree and forest cover, Ngeno said plans are in place.
He said community forest association will play a key role.
The capacity of Kenya Forestry Research Institute will also be enhanced to avail the much needed seedlings.
"Community Forest Associations, the youth, women groups, community based organizations will have the opportunity to build up their tree nurseries," Ngeno said.
Schools will also be involved.
On solid waste, Ngeno said emerging waste was the new and emerging challenge.
He said Nema will be strengthened to deal with the emerging issues affecting the environment.
