AS part of growing concerns about deforestation, environmental degradation and the long-term availability of firewood, the Delta State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ejiro Jamani, has paid an awareness visit to the Ogbuzor of Ibusa, Professor Louis Nwaoboshi, at Ibusa.
Jamani, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Minnie Oseji, said the awareness programme was aimed at addressing the growing concerns around deforestation, environmental degradation and the long-term availability of fuel wood for rural and urban households alike.
According to the commissioner, deforestation and climate change have become daunting environmental challenges facing the world today and could no longer be ignored as their effects were already manifesting.
Jamani said it was a well-known fact that firewood remains the primary source of energy for many residents, especially in rural areas, noting, however, that unsustainable practices in firewood harvesting were leading to rapid deforestation, loss of biodiversity and adverse environmental impacts that affect livelihoods.
He said the sensitisation programme will educate communities on sustainable fuel wood harvesting techniques and the importance of forest conservation, as it would minimise the indiscriminate cutting of trees and deforestation, introduce alternatives by promoting the adoption of alternative energy sources such as efficient cook stoves, solar energy and biofuels as well as production of briquettes from agriculture wastes and saw dust for cleaner energy.
The environment commissioner said the programme will feature a capacity building whereby local communities will be trained on tree planting techniques and agro-forestry practices to encourage reforestation efforts.
He added that Community Forest Management Committees (CFMCs) will be established.
Jamani further disclosed that the exercise would be carried out in three local government areas in the state, including Oshimili North, Ethiope East and Bomadi, and the sensitisation campaign will involve the use of electronic and print media, mobile public address systems as well as traditional town criers.
The ministry had, on June 5, 2024, in collaboration with Midwestern Oil, Seplat, Delta Ecosystem Restoration Initiative and Chief Festus Ochonogor, joined the global community to celebrate the World Environment Day with the theme ‘Land restoration, desertification and drought resilience’ as well as the slogan ‘Our Land Our Future.’
She highlighted some of the other efforts implemented by the ministry in preserving the environment.
On his part, Professor Nwoboshi assured the ministry of his partnership towards the forest regeneration project.
He advised people to plant a tree once a lifetime, most especially economic trees.
The traditional ruler, who is also a renowned forester, advised the ministry to sensitise the public on tree planting.
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