The Nation Newspaper

Tag: climate change

  • Climate Change: Threat to food sustainability

    Climate Change: Threat to food sustainability

    By Adebayo Adeleye

    Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is facing a daunting challenge: feeding its growing population amidst the devastating effects of climate change. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events are taking a toll on the country’s agricultural sector, putting food sustainability at risk.

    Agricultural Productivity Declines:Climate change is altering the delicate balance of Nigeria’s ecosystem, leading to reduced agricultural productivity. Farmers, who rely heavily on rain-fed agriculture, are struggling to adapt to the changing weather patterns. The consequences are dire: lower crop yields, reduced livestock productivity, and decreased food security.

    Food Insecurity on the Rise: The impact of climate change on food security is already being felt in Nigeria. An estimated 25 million Nigerians were undernourished in 2018, a staggering 180% increase over the previous decade. The situation is likely to worsen unless urgent action is taken to address the root causes of climate change and its effects on agriculture.

    READ ALSO: FULL LIST: Nigeria, others not indebted to IMF

    Way Forward

    To mitigate the effects of climate change on food sustainability, Nigeria must adopt a multi-faceted approach, in the following ways:

    Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Promote climate-resilient agricultural practices, such as irrigation, drought-resistant crop varieties, and agroforestry.

    Climate-Smart Agriculture: Invest in research and development of climate-smart agricultural technologies and practices.

    Food Storage and Distribution: Improve food storage and distribution infrastructure to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure food availability.

    International Cooperation: Collaborate with international partners to access climate finance, technology, and expertise.

    A Call to Action

    The threat of climate change to food sustainability in Nigeria is real and pressing. It requires immediate attention and action from policymakers, farmers, and the international community. We must work together to ensure that Nigeria’s growing population has access to nutritious and sustainable food, now and in the future.

    Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is an approach to agricultural development that aims to increase agricultural productivity and incomes while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving resilience to climate change.

    Key Principles of CSA include the following:

    Sustainable Agricultural Productivity: Improve crop yields, livestock productivity, and agricultural efficiency while maintaining ecosystem services.

    Climate Change Adaptation: Enhance farmers’ ability to adapt to climate-related stresses, such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves.

    Climate Change Mitigation: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural activities, such as nitrous oxide and methane emissions.

    Resilience and Risk Management: Strengthen farmers’ resilience to climate-related shocks and stresses, and improve risk management practices.

    CSA Practices and Technologies:

    Agroforestry: Integrating trees into farming systems to promote biodiversity and reduce soil erosion.

    Conservation Agriculture: Minimizing soil disturbance, maintaining soil cover, and using crop rotations to reduce erosion and improve soil health.

    Irrigation Management: Improving water use efficiency and reducing water waste through precision irrigation systems.

    Climate-Resilient Crop and Animal Varieties: Developing and using crop and animal varieties that are tolerant to climate-related stresses.

    Soil Carbon Sequestration: Implementing practices that enhance soil carbon storage, such as reduced tillage and cover cropping.

    Benefits of CSA:

    Improved Agricultural Productivity: Increased crop yields and livestock productivity.

    Enhanced Resilience: Improved ability to adapt to climate-related stresses.

    Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Lower emissions from agricultural activities.

    Improved Livelihoods: Increased incomes and improved food security for farmers and rural communities.

    Challenges and Limitations:

    Limited Access to Finance: Insufficient funding for CSA practices and technologies.

    Lack of Institutional Support: Inadequate policies, regulations, and extension services.

    Climate Information and Advisory Services: Limited access to climate information and advisory services.

    Soil Degradation and Water Scarcity: Pre-existing soil and water constraints can limit the effectiveness of CSA practices.

    Here are some climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices:

    • Dr. Adebayo Matthew, Adeleye (Ph.D., Ibadan) Researcher on Environmental Pollution and Control badeleye@gmail.com  +234 803 525 6450  

  • Climate change: Education and Public Awareness (2) Governments’ side of the task

    Climate change: Education and Public Awareness (2) Governments’ side of the task

    By Adebayo Adeleye

    As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, education and public awareness have emerged as crucial tools in the fight against this global phenomenon. Climate change is no longer just an environmental issue, but a pressing concern that affects every aspect of our lives, from health and economy to security and sustainability.

    The science is clear: human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, have led to a significant increase in greenhouse gas emissions, resulting in rising temperatures, more frequent natural disasters, and altered ecosystems. However, despite the overwhelming evidence, many people remain unaware of the severity of the issue and the actions they can take to mitigate its effects.

    This is where education and public awareness come in. By educating people about the causes, consequences, and solutions to climate change, we can empower them to make informed decisions and take action to reduce their carbon footprint. This can include simple actions such as reducing energy consumption, using public transport, or recycling, as well as more significant changes like investing in renewable energy or advocating for climate policies.

    In schools, climate change education can be integrated into curricula, teaching children about the science behind climate change, its impacts, and the importance of sustainability. This can help shape the next generation of leaders and citizens who will be equipped to address the challenges of climate change.

    Public awareness campaigns can also play a vital role in educating people about climate change. These campaigns can use various media channels, including social media, television, and print, to reach a wide audience and convey the urgency of the issue. By sharing personal stories, highlighting local impacts, and showcasing solutions, public awareness campaigns can inspire people to take action and demand change.

    Read Also: 5 Unhealthy habits of Gen Z

    Governments, organizations, and individuals must work together to promote climate change education and public awareness. This can involve developing and implementing education programs, supporting research and innovation, and advocating for climate policies.

    Governments around the world have a critical role to play in promoting climate change education and awareness, as well as developing and implementing policies to mitigate its impacts. This article explores the government’s responsibility to promote climate change education and awareness. The intervention of government was found necessary for the following reasons:

    Public Education: Governments have a responsibility to educate the public about the causes, consequences, and solutions to climate change.

    Policy Development: Governments must develop and implement policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, invest in renewable energy, and promote sustainable development.

    Resource Allocation: Governments must allocate resources to support climate change research, education, and awareness initiatives.

    International Cooperation: Governments must work together internationally to address the global nature of climate change.

    In view of the above reasons, which put the yoke on the government to ensure public education about climate change, the government is bound to be creative in articulating their programs. In this regard, the following initiatives seem perfect for consideration.

    Climate Change Education Programs: Governments can develop and implement climate change education programs in schools, universities, and communities.

    Public Awareness Campaigns: Governments can launch public awareness campaigns to educate the public about climate change and its impacts.

    Climate Change Research and Development: Governments can fund research and development initiatives to improve our understanding of climate change and develop new technologies and solutions.

    Climate Change Policy and Legislation: Governments can develop and implement policies and legislation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development.

    Several benefits of Government Intervention include the following:

    Informed Citizens: Government intervention can lead to a more informed and engaged citizenry, which is essential for addressing climate change.

    Economic Benefits: Investing in climate change education and awareness can have economic benefits, such as creating new jobs and industries.

    Environmental Benefits: Government intervention can lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved environmental outcomes.

    International Cooperation: Government intervention can facilitate international cooperation and coordination on climate change issues.

    Challenges and Opportunities

    Limited Resources: Governments may face limited resources and competing priorities, which can make it challenging to address climate change.

    Public Engagement: Governments must engage the public and build support for climate change initiatives.

    International Cooperation: Governments must work together internationally to address the global nature of climate change.

    Technological Innovation: Governments can support technological innovation and the development of new solutions to address climate change.

    In Conclusion; Governments have a critical role to play in promoting climate change education and awareness, as well as developing and implementing policies to mitigate its impacts. By investing in climate change education and awareness, governments can build a more informed and engaged citizenry, drive economic benefits, and improve environmental outcomes. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, government intervention will be essential for addressing this global issue.

    In conclusion, climate change education and public awareness are essential components in the fight against climate change. By educating people about the issue and empowering them to take action, we can build a more sustainable future and mitigate the worst impacts of climate change. As individuals, communities, and nations, we must work together to address this global challenge and ensure a livable future for generations to come.

    • Dr. Adebayo Matthew, Adeleye (Ph.D., Ibadan) Researcher on Environmental Pollution and Control badeleye@gmail.com  +234 803 525 6450.

  • AI not silver bullet for climate change

    AI not silver bullet for climate change

    • By Nelvin Ebingiye Agbozu

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is often touted as a revolutionary solution in the global fight against climate change. Its capabilities in data analysis, predictive modelling, and optimisation have inspired ambitious projects across energy, agriculture, urban planning, and environmental monitoring. However, while AI holds substantial promise, it is neither a panacea nor a standalone solution. If misapplied or over-relied upon, it can distract from, and even deepen, the very environmental challenges it is intended to solve.

    As a digital technology professional, it is vital to assess AI’s role through a lens of realism, ethics, and equity, particularly when considering its growing influence on climate policy, corporate behaviour, and environmental governance.

    One of the paradoxes of AI is its own environmental cost. Training a single large-scale AI model like OpenAI’s GPT-series or Google’s BERT can emit as much carbon as five petrol-fuelled cars over their lifetime. These emissions stem largely from energy-hungry data centres, which support the vast computational processes required to train, fine-tune, and deploy AI models. Although some countries, like Sweden and Iceland, have shifted their data centres towards renewable energy sources, many others — including major AI hubs — still rely heavily on fossil fuels.

    In the United Kingdom, the Climate Change Committee has already flagged digital infrastructure as a growing contributor to national emissions. While the government has promoted green innovation, ensuring the decarbonisation of AI infrastructure remains a pressing challenge. Without systemic efforts to green the AI supply chain, its contribution to climate mitigation risks becoming self-defeating.

    AI’s performance is directly tied to the quality and quantity of data it consumes. Unfortunately, climate-related data is not evenly distributed across the globe. Developed nations typically have more sophisticated monitoring systems, richer datasets, and robust digital infrastructure. Conversely, countries in the Global South — often the most vulnerable to climate shocks — lack comprehensive, high-resolution environmental data.

    This disparity creates what experts term ‘data inequality’. When AI models trained on Western or urban-centric datasets are applied to climate scenarios in Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, or the Pacific Islands, they often yield inaccurate or biased predictions. For instance, an AI-based flood prediction model trained on European river systems may perform poorly in the Niger Delta or Mekong Basin, where topography, drainage, and weather patterns differ dramatically.

    To address this, several countries have taken proactive steps. Kenya and South Africa, for example, have launched open environmental data platforms and AI policy frameworks aimed at localised innovation. Similarly, India’s National AI Mission includes climate resilience as a core focus, with investments in weather modelling and agricultural forecasting. These initiatives illustrate how developing countries can shape AI to meet their unique environmental contexts — if they are empowered with the right tools and support.

    Read Also: ITF to end starter pack programme, focus on global job certifications

    Another key concern is the concentration of AI development in the hands of a few tech giants. Companies such as Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta not only own the infrastructure but also dominate the data pipelines and algorithmic architectures. This centralisation creates opaque systems, where climate-related decision-making can be influenced by corporate interests rather than the public good.

    This is especially problematic when proprietary AI models are deployed in public sector initiatives. For example, using AI to determine disaster relief resource allocation or carbon trading valuations may sound efficient, but without transparency and oversight, these systems risk reinforcing existing power imbalances or excluding marginalised communities from decision-making.

    Some countries are already responding to these risks. The European Union’s AI Act includes specific clauses on environmental and social impact assessments for high-risk AI systems. Canada’s Algorithmic Impact Assessment framework mandates public reporting and ethical evaluation for government-deployed AI. These efforts demonstrate the importance of democratic governance in AI deployment, particularly when the stakes involve planetary health and human livelihoods.

    Climate change is not a neatly bounded problem that can be solved through optimisation alone. It is a complex, non-linear system, interwoven with social, political, and economic dynamics. While AI excels in structured environments such as image recognition, logistics, or financial forecasting, it often struggles with the chaos, uncertainty, and long feedback loops inherent in ecological systems.

    For example, AI models can predict weather patterns with increasing accuracy, but they are far less adept at forecasting the social consequences of prolonged drought, mass migration, or political unrest triggered by resource scarcity. Overconfidence in AI’s predictive power can thus lead to policy missteps and delayed action on more grounded, human-centred solutions.

    The UK’s National Digital Twin Programme and initiatives like Climate TRACE (a global emissions tracking consortium) show promising applications of AI and digital technology in system-level climate understanding. However, even these rely heavily on human interpretation, stakeholder engagement, and policy coordination. AI should complement — not replace — human judgment and societal input.

    A growing narrative in tech and policy circles suggests that AI will “solve” climate change. This narrative, while well-meaning, is deeply flawed. It risks promoting a form of techno-solutionism that underestimates the need for structural reform, behavioural change, and political will.

    For example, corporations may invest in AI to optimize logistics or monitor emissions, while continuing unsustainable extraction, deforestation, or plastic production in parallel. This creates a form of “greenwashing by algorithm,” where the appearance of innovation masks a lack of substantive change. In this sense, AI becomes a tool for reputational gain rather than environmental impact.

    To avoid this pitfall, companies must integrate AI into holistic sustainability strategies, not as a branding exercise, but as a means to drive genuine accountability and change. Governments must also ensure that climate policy does not become overly reliant on technological fixes at the expense of emissions reduction, conservation, or social justice.

    To realise AI’s potential in the climate space, several shifts are necessary, such as decarbonising AI infrastructure, democratising data and tools, building local capacity, enhancing governance and trust, and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration.

    Technology alone cannot solve the climate crisis. AI offers great potential, but it must be used ethically and inclusively. Misuse risks deepening inequalities. As digital sustainability professionals, we must lead with humility, responsibility, and global unity. True climate progress requires not just innovation, but wisdom, values, and collective governance.

    •Agbozu, a data scientist, writes from Bayelsa State

  • Global warming, climate change and how it all began

    Global warming, climate change and how it all began

    By Moji Alaiya

    There have been changes in expected climatic or weather conditions all over the world in recent years due to global warming and this has had great impact on human health, other animals and the environment. The entire world is experiencing an upsurge in atmospheric temperature and of course its impact. Everyone is talking about climate change but it did not just occur suddenly. Human activities created this monster and now the entire world is grasping under the weight of the impacts this phenomenon has brought.
    Mankind has always been a problem to its own existence through its activities. The human (anthropological) activities that reportedly brought about global warming and consequently its twin climate change include use of fossil fuel, deforestation, bush burning etc.
    For years, it has been postulated that human activities have the ability to change the climatic conditions of a region. The link with human and environmental health was however not well defined.

    Global Warming: How It Started

    Swedish scientist, Svante Arrhenius was the first person to give quantitative prediction of global warming as a result of increasing atmospheric carbon-dioxide in 1896.
    Eunice Foote has earlier in 1856 theorized about the idea that the warming effect of the sun increased with the presence of atmospheric carbon dioxide.

    Read Also: ‘Why we’re engaging rural women on climate change, waste to wealth’

    However, Guy Callendar was the first scientist to link global warming with human activities in 1938. The industrial revolution between the 1700s and 1800s is attributed to be responsible for the beginning of global warming.
    In 1712, British Engineer, Thomas Newcomen, invented the steam engine which paved the way for the large scale use of coal (fossil fuel) in industries. The black gold (crude oil) was later discovered and this revolutionized industrial developments. The drawback is that combustion of these fossil fuels involves emission of atmospheric pollutants such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulphur oxides etc. These were later called greenhouse gases (GHG)

    Climate scientists observed that the earth’s surface temperature increased by 1°C during the industrial revolution of the 1700s and 1800s.
    Burning of fossil for energy production results in release of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases (GHG) into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun on the earth’s surface leading to gradual increase of the Earth’s temperature.
    The growing concern over the consequences of change in Earth’s climatic conditions and global warming resulted in the formation of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in 1988. This led to the first United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 1992 and since then a Conference of Parties (COP) on global warming and climate change has been held annually.

    Impact of Global Warming
    Everything on planet earth is affected by global warming.
    • There have been severe heat-waves causing heat-strokes in man and animals. Heatstroke is presented by heavy sweating, exhaustion, dizziness and unconsciousness.
    • Changes in precipitation patterns resulting in droughts, floods, storms in different regions of the world.
    • Rise in sea level leading to erosion, loss of coastal land and loss of biodiversity.
    • Reduced agricultural productivity which impacts global food security and ultimately increased food prices and famine.
    • Global warming and its twin climate change resulted in loss of habitat/shelter for both humans and animals, disruption of the ecosystem.

    Crude oil is the major culprit responsible for global warming through the emission of greenhouse gases during combustion and energy generation.
    According to the Intergovernmental panel on climate change (IPCC), there is a need to cut emission of greenhouse gases by 43% to limit temperature rise to 1.5oC and avoid the worst impacts of climate change still to come. Truly, the world is in need of climate change solution more than ever before.

  • ‘Why we’re engaging rural women on climate change, waste to wealth’

    ‘Why we’re engaging rural women on climate change, waste to wealth’

    Founder/Executive Director, Greening Up Africa, Victor Akinmuyiwa, speaks with Gboyega Alaka about his organisation, Green Impact Nigeria Project, aimed at inculcating the message of climate action and the potentials of waste to wealth on the Nigerian people. The principal consultant and fellow of the Institute of Management Consultant, environmentalist and health and safety consultant also speaks on plans to involve people living with disabilities in an upcoming project.

    Your organisation, GreeningUp Africa has been training women in recycling, tell us about it.

    Like you rightly said, the name of our organisation is Greening Up Africa but the name of our ongoing project is Green Impact Nigeria. Greening Up Africa is a non-governmental organisation focused on climate action. We are trying to support climate action initiatives that are making people adapt to the impact of climate change. We have different types of initiatives and one of them is to be able to increase accessibility to vulnerable people – youths, women, specially uneducated women, to empower them on climate action. For example, we do what we call recycling training for them. From there we are able to reward them for taking up recycling. Many of them get food items for their efforts and also make money. The message is to let them know that while they’re trying to make the environment clean/sustainable, they can also make money along the line. We do climate smart agriculture initiatives like helping rural women learn new climate smart agriculture skills; how to also focus on renewable energy for some of their farm /agriculture activities, to be able to cut emissions. We do tree-planting and all kinds of climate action initiatives in different phases and forms. Now this month of March is the women’s month and also the month for the celebration of Global Recycling theme, so we thought to put out what we have been doing to the public.

    Is there any special reason for zeroing down on Ibadan?

    First, our organisation is actually based in Lagos, but we are not going to be focusing on Ibadan alone for this project. For instance, we are going to be in Odeda in Ogun State in the next two weeks, where we will be going into the village to engage the women on climate action, using Yoruba to communicate. We just chose Ibadan because Ibadan has a history of environmental challenges.

    I watched a video of your programme and saw where women were giving testimonies of how this process of picking up waste to generate wealth has changed their lives financially; just how profitable is this venture?

    In that video, one of the women was also talking about how she started a couple of years ago when a KG of plastic was N50 but it has grown to N700. So the more plastics you’re able to gather, the more money you make. I started as co-founder with Recycledge in Ibadan before moving on to found Greening Up Africa, so we’ve come up with a lot of initiatives to attract people to waste to wealth. For example there was a project we did called ‘PET for tuition’, where public school students who were struggling to meet up with their tuition fees , were engaged in collecting wastes from their schools and were able to pay their school fees and also buy books. So the sector is promising, which is why we are alerting the underserved, so that they can also tap into it.

    World Global Recycling Day held on March 18, how well did you mark it?

    A lot of organisations/individuals came out to do cleaning up events; some went out to teach people –market, public places to do advocacies and talks on the importance of recycling wastes and not just burning them. A couple of organisations came up with webinars on Linkedin and other social media platforms. So it may not have gained traction like the International Women’s Day, but the event was still celebrated. We had a guest feature on radio where we got to interact with online guest personalities discussing recycling and what is in it for the people.

    You also give food to the women; do you make some funding support from somewhere?

    If you read our write-up, we acknowledged that this project is supported by CimateKick; ClimateKick is one of Europe’s foremost climate innovation agencies. We do not make money, we are a non-governmental organisation. What we’re doing is to empower the people, so that they make the money. I also use my own funds to be able to do these things.

    Read Also: Firm partners LAWMA on waste recycling

    Are the men also keying into this project?

    If you look through our event photos, you’ll see a couple of men who also got involved. One of them got rewarded for bringing around 55kg of pet bottles. We are focusing on women but men are also welcome. Additionally, we are going to continue with people with disabilities in Ibadan. We have mapped out four schools that we want to reach out to on climate action. Climate action encompasses a lot – talk about emission reduction, the carbon credit market also coming into play, renewable energy.

    How do you think this project would impact on the lives of the people going forward?

    First we’re certain that this project is going to encourage more of people to come into the recycling space and do more for the environment. We’re looking forward to ensuring that through this project, people become more environment conscious and also significantly reduce illegitimate dumping of refuse or solid wastes on the community.  With the Green Impact Nigeria project, we also believe that sustainable livelihood of the people in Ibadan will improve. We are expecting that people who are jobless would have something to do, because we are communicating to them that recycling is a noble job, not just something meant for the lowly. It will help lift them out of poverty and in the long run, help us take plastic away from our water channels and help reduce cases of flooding in our communities.

  • Faith Coalition seeks action on climate change

    Faith Coalition seeks action on climate change

    A Faith Coalition has called for an immediate action in tackling climate change to enrich the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) in line with the Paris Agreement.

    The coalition insisted that as the country prepared to submit her NDC, leaders across all faith must play crucial roles in advancing actions required to mitigate climate change.

    Speaking at an engagement tagged, Strengthening Multi-Faith Coalition for Ambitious NDC organized by the GreenFaith Nigeria in partnership with the European Climate Foundation, the Greenfaith Global Programme Director and Director of GreenFaith Africa, Meryne Warah, said faith communities had critical roles to play in driving climate actions.

    Warah at the engagement in Port Harcourt said the country was faced with severe climate vulnerabilities, exacerbating poverty, food insecurity, displacement, and conflict.

    She noted that the dialogue was a call to action, saying faith leaders were expected to remain steadfast in their commitment to justice, equity, and environmental protection.

    She added that the engagement was also a collective effort aimed at inspiring bold actions that would lead Nigeria towards a sustainable and climate-resilient future.

    Warah emphasised the importance of faith-based climate education, noting that faith leaders could help in deepening understanding of the moral and ethical imperatives of climate action.

    She urged faith leaders to utilise religious gatherings, sermons, and faith media channels to disseminate climate messages and mobilize communities

    Warah stressed that faith leaders were uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between policy and grassroots action, urging the stakeholders to implement ambitious and just climate policies.

    She also called on faith communities to harness their diversity and moral authority to shape narratives, influence decision-makers, and mobilise collective action toward achieving and exceeding Nigeria’s NDC targets.

    Warah said: “As we confront the escalating climate crisis, we recognize that Nigeria, like many nations, faces severe climate vulnerabilities—from desertification in the North to coastal erosion and flooding in the South.

    “These environmental threats exacerbate poverty, food insecurity, displacement, and conflict. It is in this context that our faith communities must rise with a prophetic voice, urging our leaders and stakeholders to implement ambitious and just climate policies.

    “Faith leaders are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between policy and grassroots action. With moral authority, vast networks, and deep-rooted community trust, we can shape narratives, influence decision-makers, and mobilize collective action toward achieving and exceeding Nigeria’s NDC targets.”

    Read Also: Climate Change: The rising tide of climate migration

    In his lecture, the Programme Manager for GreenFaith Africa, Dr. Pius Oko, said the faith coalition was working to promote awareness and education among faith communities on the importance of their moral obligations in addressing climate change.

    He noted that the faith coalition was seeking to leverage the influence and position of faith leaders to advance policies that mitigate and adapt to climate change.

    Oko also noted that faith leaders were often the first communities affected by climate-related disasters, providing shelter and support to victims in mosques, churches, and local homes, as such, they were major stakeholders in the fight against climate change.

    Oko emphasized that the coalition’s efforts were focused on promoting awareness and education among faith communities, as well as mobilising finances to support climate action in frontline communities.

  • Climate Change: Threat to food sustainability

    Climate Change: Threat to food sustainability

    By Adebayo Adeleye

    Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is facing a daunting challenge: feeding its growing population amidst the devastating effects of climate change. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events are taking a toll on the country’s agricultural sector, putting food sustainability at risk.

    Agricultural Productivity Declines:Climate change is altering the delicate balance of Nigeria’s ecosystem, leading to reduced agricultural productivity. Farmers, who rely heavily on rain-fed agriculture, are struggling to adapt to the changing weather patterns. The consequences are dire: lower crop yields, reduced livestock productivity, and decreased food security.

    Food Insecurity on the Rise: The impact of climate change on food security is already being felt in Nigeria. An estimated 25 million Nigerians were undernourished in 2018, a staggering 180% increase over the previous decade. The situation is likely to worsen unless urgent action is taken to address the root causes of climate change and its effects on agriculture.

    Way Forward

    To mitigate the effects of climate change on food sustainability, Nigeria must adopt a multi-faceted approach, in the following ways:

    Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Promote climate-resilient agricultural practices, such as irrigation, drought-resistant crop varieties, and agroforestry.

    Climate-Smart Agriculture: Invest in research and development of climate-smart agricultural technologies and practices.

    Read Also: RONKE OSHODI-OKE: Nollywood will frustrate you

    Food Storage and Distribution: Improve food storage and distribution infrastructure to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure food availability.

    International Cooperation: Collaborate with international partners to access climate finance, technology, and expertise.

    A Call to Action

    The threat of climate change to food sustainability in Nigeria is real and pressing. It requires immediate attention and action from policymakers, farmers, and the international community. We must work together to ensure that Nigeria’s growing population has access to nutritious and sustainable food, now and in the future.

    Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is an approach to agricultural development that aims to increase agricultural productivity and incomes while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving resilience to climate change.

    Key Principles of CSA include the following:

    Sustainable Agricultural Productivity: Improve crop yields, livestock productivity, and agricultural efficiency while maintaining ecosystem services.

    Climate Change Adaptation: Enhance farmers’ ability to adapt to climate-related stresses, such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves.

    Climate Change Mitigation: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural activities, such as nitrous oxide and methane emissions.

    Resilience and Risk Management: Strengthen farmers’ resilience to climate-related shocks and stresses, and improve risk management practices.

    CSA Practices and Technologies:

    Agroforestry: Integrating trees into farming systems to promote biodiversity and reduce soil erosion.

    Conservation Agriculture: Minimizing soil disturbance, maintaining soil cover, and using crop rotations to reduce erosion and improve soil health.

    Irrigation Management: Improving water use efficiency and reducing water waste through precision irrigation systems.

    Climate-Resilient Crop and Animal Varieties: Developing and using crop and animal varieties that are tolerant to climate-related stresses.

    Soil Carbon Sequestration: Implementing practices that enhance soil carbon storage, such as reduced tillage and cover cropping.

    Benefits of CSA:

    Improved Agricultural Productivity: Increased crop yields and livestock productivity.

    Enhanced Resilience: Improved ability to adapt to climate-related stresses.

    Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Lower emissions from agricultural activities.

    Improved Livelihoods: Increased incomes and improved food security for farmers and rural communities.

    Challenges and Limitations:

    Limited Access to Finance: Insufficient funding for CSA practices and technologies.

    Lack of Institutional Support: Inadequate policies, regulations, and extension services.

    Climate Information and Advisory Services: Limited access to climate information and advisory services.

    Soil Degradation and Water Scarcity: Pre-existing soil and water constraints can limit the effectiveness of CSA practices.

    Here are some climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices:

    Dr. Adebayo Matthew, Adeleye (Ph.D., Ibadan), Researcher on Environmental Pollution and Control – badeleye@gmail.com  +234 803 525 6450  

  • Climate Change: Unlocking the economic benefits of climate action

    Climate Change: Unlocking the economic benefits of climate action

    • By Adebayo Adeleye

    As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, a growing body of evidence suggests that taking bold action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions can have significant economic benefits. In fact, a report by the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate finds that climate action could deliver at least $26 trillion in economic benefits through 2030.

    So, what are the key economic benefits of climate action. For starters, reduction in energy costs is a major advantage. Investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy can help businesses and households save money on their energy bills. Additionally, creating new job opportunities is another significant benefit. The clean energy sector is already supporting millions of jobs worldwide, and this number is expected to grow as the demand for renewable energy increases. Improvement of public health is another important economic benefit of climate action. By reducing air pollution from fossil fuels, we can prevent millions of premature deaths and reduce the economic burden of healthcare costs. In fact, a study by the World Health Organization finds that the economic benefits of reducing air pollution can be as high as $1 trillion per year. Furthermore, stimulating innovation and growth is a critical economic benefit of climate action. Investing in clean energy and green technologies can drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. The report by the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate finds that climate action can generate over 65 million new low-carbon jobs in 2030, equivalent to the entire workforce of the UK and Egypt combined. The economic benefits of climate action are clear. By taking bold action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we can unlock significant economic benefits, from reducing energy costs to creating new job opportunities, improving public health, and stimulating innovation and growth. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, it’s time to recognize the economic benefits of climate action and work towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.

    For the purpose of clarity and emphasis, listed below are five major economic benefits of climate action:

    Job Creation and Employment Opportunities: Climate action can create new job opportunities in various sectors, including the following;

    Renewable energy: The renewable energy sector is creating new job opportunities in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.

    Energy efficiency: Improving energy efficiency in buildings and industries can create jobs in retrofitting, insulation, and other related services.

    Sustainable infrastructure: Investing in sustainable infrastructure, such as green buildings, can create jobs in construction, architecture, and engineering.

    Climate resilience and adaptation: Climate resilience and adaptation measures, such as sea walls, levees, and green roofs, can create jobs in construction, engineering, and environmental management.

    According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the renewable energy sector employed 11 million people worldwide in 2020, and this number is expected to triple by 2050.

    Increased Economic Productivity: Climate action can increase economic productivity by:

    Improving energy efficiency: Energy-efficient technologies and practices can reduce energy consumption, lower energy bills, and increase productivity.

    Read Also: Climate change threatens food system, says minister

    Enhancing resource efficiency: Climate action can promote the efficient use of resources, such as water and raw materials, which can lead to cost savings and increased productivity.

    Reducing climate-related disruptions: Climate action can reduce the risk of climate-related disruptions, such as heatwaves, droughts, and floods, which can impact economic productivity.

    Promoting sustainable agriculture: Climate action can promote sustainable agriculture practices, which can increase crop yields, improve food security, and enhance economic productivity.

    According to a study by the International Energy Agency (IEA), energy efficiency measures can increase economic productivity by up to 2% annually.

    Reduced Healthcare Costs: Climate action can reduce healthcare costs by:

    Improving air quality: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions can improve air quality, which can reduce the incidence of respiratory diseases and other health problems.

    Reducing heat-related illnesses: Climate action can reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

    Reducing water-borne diseases: Climate action can reduce the risk of water-borne diseases, such as cholera and typhoid fever.

    Promoting physical activity: Climate action can promote physical activity, such as walking and cycling, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

    According to a study by the World Health Organization (WHO), the economic benefits of reducing air pollution can be up to 10 times higher than the costs of implementing pollution control measures.

    Increased Property Values and Reduced Infrastructure Costs: Climate action can increase property values and reduce infrastructure costs by:

    Reducing flood risk: Climate action can reduce the risk of flooding, which can increase property values and reduce infrastructure costs.

    Improving urban planning: Climate action can promote sustainable urban planning, which can increase property values and reduce infrastructure costs.

    Reducing heat island effect: Climate action can reduce the heat island effect, which can increase property values and reduce infrastructure costs.

    Promoting green infrastructure: Climate action can promote the use of green infrastructure, such as green roofs and green walls, which can increase property values and reduce infrastructure costs.

    According to a study by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), every dollar invested in flood resilience measures can save up to $4 in economic losses.

    Reduced Climate-Related Risks and Uncertainty

    Climate action can reduce climate-related risks and uncertainty by:

    Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: Climate action can reduce the risk of catastrophic climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

    Promoting climate resilience: Climate action can promote climate resilience by supporting the development of climate-resilient infrastructure and ecosystems.

    Reducing climate-related uncertainty: Climate action can reduce climate-related uncertainty by promoting the use of climate models and scenario planning.

    Supporting climate risk management: Climate action can support climate risk management by promoting the use of climate risk assessments and climate risk management frameworks.

    According to a study by the Economist Intelligence Unit, climate change can reduce global economic output by up to 11% by 2100 if left unchecked.

    • Dr. Adebayo Matthew, Adeleye (Ph.D., Ibadan) Researcher on Environmental Pollution and Control badeleye@gmail.com  +234 803 525 6450
  • Climate Change: Decarbonization strategy

    Climate Change: Decarbonization strategy

    The urgent need to address climate change has led to a growing consensus on the importance of decarbonization. This procedure involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2), to mitigate the impacts of climate change. However, decarbonization is not a one-size-fits-all effort. Different countries, industries, and communities face unique challenges and opportunities in their transition to a low-carbon economy. Decarbonization is a complex strategy and requires a multifaceted approach that takes into account various factors, including:

    Economic development: Countries at different stages of economic development have varying capacities to invest in low-carbon technologies and infrastructure.

    Energy mix: The composition of a country’s energy mix, including fossil fuels, nuclear, and renewables, influences its decarbonization pathway.

    Technological advancements: The availability and affordability of low-carbon technologies, such as solar panels and electric vehicles, impact decarbonization efforts.

    Policy and regulation: Effective policies and regulations are crucial for driving decarbonization, but their design and implementation vary across countries.

    Public acceptance and behavior: Decarbonization requires changes in individual behavior and societal norms, which can be influenced by cultural, social, and economic factors.

    Country-Specific Decarbonization Pathways:

    Countries with different economic, energy, and technological profiles require tailored decarbonization strategies. For example:

    Developed economies: Countries like the United States, Germany, and Japan can focus on transitioning their existing infrastructure to low-carbon technologies, such as electric vehicles and renewable energy.

    Developing economies: Countries like Nigeria, India, Brazil, and South Africa need to balance economic development with decarbonization efforts, leveraging low-carbon technologies to fuel their growth.

    Oil-exporting economies: Countries exporting oil as main stay for their income must diversify their economies to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and invest in low-carbon industries.

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu’s wife to parents: Give your male children essential home skills

    Industry-Specific Decarbonization Strategies:

    Different industries have unique decarbonization challenges and opportunities:

    Energy sector: Transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and developing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.

    Transportation sector: Promoting electric vehicles, improving fuel efficiency, and developing alternative fuels like hydrogen.

    Industry sector: Improving energy efficiency, switching to low-carbon production processes, and developing CCS technologies.

    Agriculture sector: Implementing sustainable agriculture practices, reducing synthetic fertilizer use, and promoting agroforestry.

    Community-Led Decarbonization Initiatives:

    Local communities can play a vital role in decarbonization efforts:

    Community-owned renewable energy projects: Community-led initiatives can develop and own renewable energy projects, such as wind farms or solar cooperatives.

    Energy efficiency programs: Communities can implement energy efficiency programs, such as building insulation and retrofitting, to reduce energy consumption.

    Sustainable transportation initiatives: Communities can promote sustainable transportation options, such as car-sharing, bike-sharing, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

    Conclusion: Decarbonization is a complex and multifaceted challenge that requires tailored approaches for different countries, industries, and communities. A one-size-fits-all approach will not be effective in addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by each country and industry. Instead, policymakers, businesses, and communities must work together to develop and implement context-specific decarbonization strategies that balance economic, social, and environmental considerations.

    By acknowledging and addressing the diversity of decarbonization challenges and opportunities, we can accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

    •Dr. Adebayo Matthew, Adeleye (Ph.D., Ibadan)

    Researcher on Environmental Pollution and Control

    badeleye@gmail.com  +234 803 525 6450

  • FRIN researcher urges Lagos to emulate Hamburg in tackling climate change

    FRIN researcher urges Lagos to emulate Hamburg in tackling climate change

    A researcher at Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), Ibadan, Dr. Olalekan Fatoki, has urged Lagos State to address its escalating climate challenges by emulating Hamburg, Germany. 

    Fatoki said the city is ranked as the tenth most vulnerable coastal city globally. 

    Speaking with journalists in Ibadan, Fatoki lamented that Lagos faces rising sea levels, erratic rainfall, heatwaves and severe flooding, which threaten over 24 million residents.

    According to him, with the population projected to reach 35 million by 2050, there is urgency for bold action.

    He said that Hamburg’s renewable energy strategy stood out as a key lesson for Lagos, adding the German city has invested heavily in solar, wind, and biomass energy, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050. 

    Read Also: Senate queries funding of MOFI with N150bat FMBN’s expense

    Fatoki suggested that Lagos could adopt similar measures by incentivizing the use of solar panels and exploring wind energy investments to reduce reliance on fossil fuels as well as curb carbon emissions.

    He said that waste management was another critical area where Lagos could benefit from Hamburg’s circular economy model, which emphasised recycling and waste reduction. 

    “Lagos, plagued by inadequate waste disposal, could introduce comprehensive recycling initiatives to curb pollution, create jobs, and minimise landfill dependency, aligning with sustainable resource use.

    “Flood protection also provides a valuable blueprint for Lagos. Hamburg has invested in levees, flood barriers, and efficient drainage systems to mitigate the impacts of rising sea levels and heavy rains.”

    Fatoki called for Lagos to prioritise similar infrastructure to safeguard vulnerable communities from worsening climate impacts.

    The researcher, who acknowledged challenges like poor urban planning, corruption and weak law enforcement, remained optimistic that Lagos can become a climate-resilient metropolis by learning from Hamburg’s successes. 

    He however said immediate action, robust governance and active public participation were very vital to securing a sustainable future for the city’s growing population.