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Incorporate REDD+ into national development process, UNDP advises government

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Incorporate REDD+ into national development process, UNDP advises government

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has advised the federal government to prioritise the implementation of the REDD+ programme and incorporate it into the national development processes.

REDD+ conference
Dignatories at the High-Level National REDD+ conference

The UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, Edward Kallon, gave the advice at the High-Level National REDD+ conference held on Wednesday, May 31, 2017 in Abuja.

The REDD+ conference provided an opportunity for experts in climate change to discuss Nigeria’s strategy to reduce emission from deforestation and forest degradation and jointly mobilise political, strategic and institutional support for its implementation.

The REDD+ strategy comprised of  policy reforms, innovative solutions, investment priorities and related REDD+ implementation framework with due monitoring and safeguard systems as called for under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Represented by Deputy Country Director – Operations, Betty Wabonoha, Kallon reiterated that the forest sector plays an important role in Nigeria’s economy in the provision of food and ecosystem by contributing to the sustainability of the environment.

“So, when addressing REDD+, you must have in mind the bigger picture and the need for coordinated approach to meet the development challenges of our time- namely food security, climate change and others.

“We recognise that stakeholder engagement is essential and crucial for the sustainability of the REDD+ process and we need the support and commitment of all stakeholders and partners.

“REDD+ offers an opportunity to integrate climate change into the national development processes. Some of the proposed strategic interventions in the REDD+ strategy go far beyond the forest sector.

“We need to ensure that we do not loss the momentum gained during the development of the strategy. This is also an opportunity for resource mobilisation to scale up the REDD+ in Nigeria,” he said.

While congratulating the federal government for organising the conference, the UNDP helmsman noted that climate change presents one of the most compelling developmental challenges globally.

He disclosed that, in Nigeria, the current national deforestation rate which is estimated at 3.7 per cent is one of the highest in the world and that more than 300,000 hecters of forest have been lost in the last 40 years.

“Whereas we have to contend with this challenge, the good news is that together we can do something about it. In line with this National REDD+1 and the Cross River State REDD+ strategy offer an opportunity for us to bring transformational change in the way we can manage and protect our forests,” he noted.

According to him, the implementation of the REDD+1 strategy and the Cross River State REDD + strategy will provide an opportunity to demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to the Paris agreement.

“The Paris agreement acknowledges the role that forest and indeed the REDD+ play in addressing climate change and adaptation.

“It will also contribute to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as Goal 13 to take certain actions to combat climate change and its impact and Goal 15 to protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystem, sustainably large forest, combat desertification, and halt biodiversity loss,” he further explained.

He reiterated that the UNDP would continue to support the federal government and other stakeholders in the years ahead in transforming from the REDD+ readiness of implementation for Nigeria to ultimately get to result base gains.

While declaring the conference open, the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Environment, Dr Shehu Ahmed, acknowledged the support given to Nigeria by the UNDP and other development partners since the inception of the REDD+.

He noted that the collaborative efforts demonstrated by the development partners  has further heightened Nigeria’s speed in implementing the REDD+ programme as well as develop enviable ideas that will enable the programme attain its desired objectives.

Ahmed therefore appealed to the participants at the conference to brainstorm and come out with implementable outcomes that will advance the REDD+ strategy.

In his message of goodwill, the Senate Committee Chairman on Ecology and Climate Change, Senator Bukar Abba Ibrahim, advocated for massive awareness on the REDD+ initiative to enable Nigerians buy into it.

He emphasised that the programme is key to national development and if accepted by most Nigerians it will lead to drastic reduction in emission and environmental degradation in the country.

He said: “The Programme is very key, but has not been given the needed awareness it deserved. REDD+ should interface with key stakeholders to carry out extensive awareness.

“This approach, if adopted will lead to increase in behavioural change and bring greater awareness and perception thereby reducing emission and environmental degradation in our country.”

He, however, lamented that one of the greatest challenges of climate change in the country is the alarming rate of extinction of the ecosystem, owing largely to human activities or lack of it.

“Our national forests are at the verge of extinction. The desert from the north is encroaching fast leading to the loss of natural farm lands and living species in alarming proportion.

“Programmes like REDD+ should help in creating awareness on the emission reduction and spread knowledge for forest management.

“The REDD+ should take the programme to the host communities, adapt local channel of communication using traditional  and local dialects to woo the host communities from the known to the new,” he explained.

He said that his committee was ready to work with the Federal Ministry of Environment to implement programmes that will promote the attainment of the Paris Agreement which Nigeria signed in September 2016 “while we look forward to a more robust engagement on these and many more.”

The conference was well attended by experts and stakeholders in the environment sector.

The National Assembly (including both the Senate and the House of Representatives) was also represented at the conference.

By Hassan Danmaryam

Need for disaster management-gender mainstreaming policy implementation underscored

Michael Simire
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Need for disaster management-gender mainstreaming policy implementation underscored

Participants at the just concluded two-day National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) organised and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) supported Expert Review Workshop held at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru-Jos, Plateau State, have emphasised that all hands must be on deck in implementing the policy on mainstreaming gender in disaster management when it becomes a working document.

NEMA-UNDP
Participants at the close of the workshop

While evaluating the workshop at the close of the event on Friday, 2nd June, 2017, they opined that mainstreaming gender in disaster management is key to aligning the society for proper development.

Speaking, Special Assistant to the Vice President on Humanitarian Affairs, Ms Olabisi Ogungbemi, stated that the workshop is a good development for NEMA and the country and aided in sieving through the policy document draft to see how it can be completed and pushed for proper implementation.

“There are challenges and when it comes to gender issues in the country, it is a sensitive issue to tread with caution, however, we have the political will to push and continue to push till we get what we want,” she added.

Also speaking, Assistant Director (Head Gender Unit), Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Ifeoma Anyanwu, who commended UNDP for anchoring the workshop and being visible in interventions on gender issues, said that, for the document to work, the gender unit of NEMA has to be supported by all components of the Agency.

In her remarks, Gender Desk Officer, Department of Climate Change, Federal Ministry of Environment, Oluwabusola, Ajibola, stated that there is every need to ensure that the policy is implemented and not left on the shelf like others.

She maintained that NEMA has done a good job with drafting the gender policy and hope they will take ownership of the document and advocate for its implementation with a vigorous push.

For Dr Elias Lamle, a lecturer with the Centre for Conflict Management and Peace Studies, University of Jos, the workshop which is practical and inclusive will usher in a well tailored policy on gender mainstreaming in disaster management which other organisations too can benefit from.

In her closing remarks, the workshop’s consultant, Prof. Funmilayo Para-Mallam, who noted that gender is a critical issue impacting on the lives of women, men, boys and girls, commended participants for their input, stating that it would go a long way in fashioning a sustainable policy document.

In his vote of thanks, Deputy Director Disaster Risk Reduction, NEMA, Benjamin Oghenah, while appreciating NIPSS collaboration by hosting the workshop thanked participants for their robust contributions and passion put into the workshop.

By Damian Daga, Kuru-Jos

Paris Agreement: There’s nothing Washington can do to stop us, says Bloomberg

Michael Simire
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Paris Agreement: There’s nothing Washington can do to stop us, says Bloomberg

While U.S. President Donald Trump was on Thursday, June 1, 2017 announcing the nation’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement on Climate Change,  American philanthropist and UN envoy, Michael Bloomberg, on the other hand was doing what appears to be the exact opposite – filling a significant funding gap arising from Trump’s action and ensuring that America and other countries fulfill the landmark climate accord.

Michael Bloomberg
Michael Bloomberg

Bloomberg, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Cities and Climate Change, announced a commitment of up to $15 million to support the operations of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Executive Secretariat, including its work to help countries implement their commitments under the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change. Bloomberg will also work with other governments and philanthropies that may be interested in supporting the UNFCCC at this critical time.

The pledge aims to fill a significant funding gap that comes as a result of President Donald Trump’s announced withdrawal from the Paris agreement and proposed steep budget cuts for international programs, including on climate.

“Americans are not walking away from the Paris Climate Agreement,” said Bloomberg.  “Just the opposite – we are forging ahead. Mayors, governors, and business leaders from both political parties are signing onto a statement of support that we will submit to the UN – and together, we will reach the emission reduction goals the U.S. made in Paris in 2015. As a sign of our commitment, Bloomberg Philanthropies, in partnership with others, will make up the approximately $15 million in funding that the U.N.’s Climate Secretariat stands to lose from Washington. Americans will honor and fulfill the Paris Agreement by leading from the bottom up – and there isn’t anything Washington can do to stop us.”

Patricia Espinosa, the Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), said: “We are grateful to Bloomberg Philanthropies for this generous contribution. While funding from governments remains central to our work, this kind of support is crucial for the work of the Secretariat to assist nations in their efforts to implement their commitments under the Paris Climate Change Agreement. In order to achieve Paris in full and deliver low emissions, resilient and more secure future for every man, woman and child, it is very encouraging to see that all actors reaffirm their willingness to work together.”

Trump indicated the administration will terminate all support for UN climate change efforts. This would slash the US contribution to the operations of the UNFCCC – the climate negotiating body of the UN – creating an immediate gap. It will also cut previously promised funding for the Green Climate Fund, which provides billions of dollars in support for developing countries to meet their Paris Agreement commitments. The Green Climate Fund recently launched a request for proposals from private sector companies to cut emissions or improve climate resilience in developing countries, offering a total $500 million in funding overall.

From 2014 to 2016, Bloomberg Philanthropies supported the UNFCCC – the climate negotiating body of the UN – for its work with “non-state actors” including cities, states and businesses. Bloomberg Philanthropies can fill the gap left by the US government backing out of its commitments. Support would be allocated to cover staff costs in Bonn, Germany associated with their climate negotiations and communications efforts.

The Bloomberg Philanthropies works in more than 120 countries around the world to ensure better, longer lives for the greatest number of people. The organisation focuses on five key areas for creating lasting change: Arts, Education, Environment, Government Innovation and Public Health. Bloomberg Philanthropies encompasses all of Michael R. Bloomberg’s charitable activities, including his foundation and his personal giving. In 2016, Bloomberg Philanthropies distributed over half a billion dollars.

Changing environmental trajectory to build Africa’s sustainable cities

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Changing environmental trajectory to build Africa’s sustainable cities

The Nakivubo wetland, one of several large wetland systems within and around the Ugandan city of Kampala, is severely degraded. The volumes of contaminated runoff entering wetland channels from informal areas and partially treated wastewater from the overburdened sewage works have increased significantly.

Kampala
The city of Kampala in Uganda

The city is considering rehabilitating the Nakivubo wetland, but it would cost $53 million, in addition to ongoing maintenance and operating costs of about $3.6 million per year – it is now too costly and impractical to restore the wetland to a state where benefits can be achieved.

Had Kampala grown in a way that protects the wetland, the city would today be reaping the benefits of this natural asset and the flow of economic and fiscal value that it could supply.

“Once ecosystems such as wetlands in urban areas have become severely impacted, they are often effectively eradicated, as is the stream of services they can provide to support economic production and human well-being,” stressed Roland White, Global Lead for City Management, Governance and Financing for the World Bank and lead author of the Greening Africa’s Cities report launched on Thursday, June 1, 2017 in Dar es Salaam. “While the environmental quality of cities may be treated as a low priority by financially-strapped local governments, it carries tangible economic, fiscal, and social costs.”

 

The adverse impacts of environmental degradation in Africa’s cities

Deterioration of environmental quality arising from urbanisation is negatively impacting health, income, productivity, and the quality of life in African economies and cities. In sub-Saharan Africa, public welfare losses resulting from exposure to household and ambient air pollution were estimated to amount to 3.8% of the regional gross domestic product.

The degradation of natural assets and ecosystems can also increase the impacts of extreme weather events. As cities grow, the magnitude of flood flows arising from any given rainfall event also grows. This means that the natural floodplain areas in low-lying parts of the city also increase. In Dar es Salaam, the expected annual losses from damage to structures in the Msimbazi floodplain alone amount to an estimated $47.3 million per year.

Cities may also forfeit property tax income from premium property owners who are willing to pay for being close to natural and open space areas that are in good condition. Research undertaken in the city of Durban, which has a well-developed network of green open space, shows that the premiums paid for proximity to good quality natural and man-made open space areas can amount to $339 million.

 

Building sustainable and resilient cities in Africa

According to White, “Africa is urbanising late but fast. Africa’s cities have grown at an average rate of close to 4.0% per year over the past twenty years, and are projected to grow between 2.5% and 3.5% annually from 2015 to 2055.  Yet most African cities are on a trajectory of environmental degradation that has become negatively reinforcing and unsustainable.”

Africa is urbanising at relatively low levels of industrialisation, motorisation, and technology by international standards. However, its heavy reliance on biomass fuels is generating high levels of fine and small particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) relative to other regions.

In addition, Africa is urbanising at substantially lower levels of wealth than other regions, with low proportions of overall capital investment (infrastructure, housing, and office building) – around 20% of GDP. Relative to city size, fiscal resources are extremely limited, with public expenditures on urban infrastructure and services (outside of South Africa) in a range of less than $1 to around $15 per capita per year. For the entire region, the proportion of urban residents with access to sanitation was estimated to be only 37% in 2010.

Add to that the fact that institutions and systems that are critical to effective urban development and management are weak, with most large metropolitan areas covering numerous jurisdictions, and managed by different elected bodies, local government structures, and agencies. Many of them have fragmented and overlapping planning and regulatory authority that restricts effective urban environmental management.

“There is a significant risk that Africa’s cities may become locked into a ‘grow dirty now, clean up later’ development path which may be irreversible, costly, inefficient, and welfare-reducing,” White explained.

The report, “Greening Africa’s Cities”, underscores the urgency for green urban development policies that can help cities move toward a more harmonious relationship between the natural and built environments if focused action is taken, tackling the core problems of pollution and waste, overconsumption of natural resources and eradication of ecosystems, and the deterioration of biodiversity in the context of urban growth.

“The World Bank helps clients build inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities, villages, and communities,” said Ede Ijjasz-Vasquez, Senior Director of the World Bank’s Social, Urban, Rural and Resilience Global Practice, “with strong linkages to the Bank’s twin goals of ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity in a sustainable way.  The Bank is working with African countries in developing green urban development strategies to build sustainable cities.”

Trump Paris Agreement rejection described as ‘call to action’

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Trump Paris Agreement rejection described as ‘call to action’

U.S. President Donald Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement on climate change puts the United States at odds not just with the international community, but with overwhelming scientific evidence and the publicly expressed wishes of hundreds of American companies, from Apple to Exxon.

Scott Vaughan
Scott Vaughan, Preident and CEO of International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD)

These are part of sentiments expressed by Scott Vaughan, President and CEO of International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD).

According to him, without the United States, the rest of the world will have a harder time meeting the Paris Agreement’s goal of preventing global temperatures from rising more than 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. “And the United States will miss out on the creation of more jobs and economic growth as well as reduced business risks,” he adds.

His words: “While we are deeply disappointed by this ill-informed decision, we are also heartened by the immediate response from other major countries determined to proceed with climate action. India, the European Union and China pledged to accelerate their efforts. Canada announced it will co-host a ministerial summit with China and the European Union in September to advance action on the Paris Agreement.

“Even more importantly, new coalitions of states, cities and businesses within the United States have emerged in defiance of the president’s decision.

“Governors from California, New York and across the country declared they would work together to move ahead with climate action. Yesterday, 83 mayors signed a statement vowing to uphold the commitments to the goals enshrined in the Paris Agreement.

“And finally, U.S. businesses have expressed their frustration and disappointment with the decision, but also stressed that it would have little impact on their own ongoing efforts. Brad Smith, CEO of Microsoft, said this about the Paris Agreement: “A global framework strengthens competitiveness for American businesses. It creates new markets for innovative clean technologies, from green power to smart grids to cloud-enabled solutions.”

“At IISD we will continue to work across the world and in the United States at every level of government to help implement climate action.

“We echo the words of the 83 U.S. mayors who committed to adopting and upholding the Paris Climate Agreement goals: ‘The world cannot wait—and neither will we’.”

Ibrahim Usman Jibril, Nigeria’s Environment Minister of State, said: “Despite the pulling out of the United States from the Paris Agreement, I want to state categorically that Nigeria joined the Paris Agreement as a Sovereign Country taking into account its national circumstances and convection in a global approach to tackle climate change.

“Nigeria is committed to the provisions of the Paris agreement as it is in accordance with its National interest.”

The Least Developed Countries (LDC) group, representing nearly one billion people in the 48 poorest countries in the world, in a reaction, has expressed disappointment in the decision, but emphasised that global climate momentum will continue with or without the US.

Chair of the LDC group, Mr. Gebru Jember Endalew, said: “It is deeply disappointing to see the US shirking its responsibilities as a member of the global community. We are already seeing the impacts of climate change with record droughts, flooding and heat waves recently faced around the world. For LDCs the impacts are especially devastating; as the poorest countries in the world we are highly vulnerable but the least capable to respond to the threat of climate change. By refusing to commit to ambitious action on climate change President Trump is showing disregard for the lives of millions around the world.

“In Paris the world united with a call for climate action and the wave of momentum now behind the Agreement cannot be slowed by one country deciding to sit on the sidelines. Many countries have taken up the mantle of global climate leadership through ambitious climate policies and innovation, and the US has lost a seat at this table.

“The international community won’t wait for the US to catch up. Transformations in technology, consumption patterns and demand for clean, green innovations are charging ahead of political will around the world. Countries are learning that taking advantage of these innovations is not only smart for the climate, but smart for the economy. Joining the transition to a green economy means embracing business opportunities that are beneficial for all.

“The US is only one country. I urge global leaders not to let President Trump’s decision to distract us from the important work we need to do to achieve the vital goals enshrined in the Paris Agreement. I also invite President Trump to reconsider his decision. Let us continue to work together to build a safe world for present and future generations.”

Climate justice must be prioritised, say faith-based groups

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Climate justice must be prioritised, say faith-based groups

The ACT Alliance, the Lutheran World Federation and the World Council of Churches, have called for a prioritisation of climate justice as US President Donald Trump on Thursday, June 1, 2017 issued executive order withdrawing the US from the Paris Climate Agreement.  They express deep dismay at the development, which they believe goes against global commitments to address climate change.

ACT Alliance
An interfaith group of religious leaders sits in front of empty trays during a public action at COP21 in Paris in 2015. Photo credit: Ryan Rodrick Beiler/LWF

The three faith-based bodies, it was gathered, actively contributed to the development of the Paris agreement, and welcomed its outcomes and the commitments of the nations of the world to it.

“Only 18 months ago global leaders welcomed the landmark Paris Climate Agreement for taking into account the immediate needs of countries most severely affected by the impacts of climate change. The move by the President of the United States flies in the face of ethics and Christian values,” says Rudelmar Bueno De Faria, ACT Alliance General Secretary.

“Addressing climate change equals protecting human beings, their workplaces and the economies of the world. The LWF will continue to promote climate justice, as an issue of intergenerational justice, in the conviction that creation is not for sale,” says Martin Junge, LWF General Secretary.

“This is a tragedy, missing an opportunity to show real, accountable leadership for the future of humanity and our common home. This is a decision that is not morally sustainable – and not economically sustainable either. The struggle for climate justice has to continue,” says Olav Fykse Tveit, WCC General Secretary.

As global temperatures continue to rise, severe floods, droughts and superstorms are becoming more and more commonplace. It is the most vulnerable people who are hit first.

The poorest countries will be hit twice more: first by unwillingness to curb US carbon emissions, and then by a planned decrease in climate finance to support people in adapting to the impacts of climate change and towards a transition to clean energy for poor countries.

The implementation of the Paris agreement is the only way for the human family to turn away from the threat of global warming. The ACT Alliance, the Lutheran World Federation and the World Council of Churches affirm their commitment to climate justice and call on the nations of the world to stand by the commitments of the Paris Agreement.

ACT Alliance is a global alliance of 143 churches and related organisations working together in over 100 countries to create positive and sustainable change in the lives of poor and marginalised people.

Unpacking re-source democracy

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Unpacking re-source democracy

In his remarks made at the Sustainability Academy themed “Unpacking Re-Source Democracy” and held on Friday, June 2, 2017 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nnimmo Bassey, Director of Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), observers that the pulling away of the USA, the second largest greenhouse emitter, from the global climate space, as outrageous as it is, only confirms that power only respects primitive self-interest.

Nnimmo-Bassey
Nnimmo Bassey, Director of Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF)

Progress has been measured by how much humans are able to transform Nature and increasingly this has been seen to be directly related to how exploitative of Nature and how polluting a nation or corporate entity can be. Clearly, the environmental crises confronting the world are inseparable from the economic crisis.

The quest for materials and their transformation over the years have led to slavery, colonialism, autocracy and diverse socio-cultural corruption and manipulations. It has led to forceful dispossession of persons, communities and nations of their heritage through wars and other violent confrontations. This exploitative pathway, in which we have chiselled and drilled into the belly of the Earth, polluted our rivers and atmosphere, mowed down mountains, chopped down forests and poisoned our food systems, has taken humans further away from Nature over time.

Humankind’s quest for the control of Nature has led to the waging of unwinnable wars over natural forces and manifestations. Rising consumption and wastages have led to massive extinction of species and severe environmental changes – some of which may well be irreversible. Progress is largely measured by uniformity of products that yield to mass production, transportation and consumption. We seem to have forgotten that Nature thrives in diversities. This psychological and physical drifting from Nature is proving unsustainable as planetary boundaries and limits are being reached and exceeded.

The current global economic crisis will not go away as long as the current basis of relations stays. A capitalist economic system respects neither nature nor environment or peoples. It is based intrinsically on exploitative, competitive and non-regenerative relationships and cannot be sustained in perpetuity. When you don’t regenerate, you are not restorative and your actions are firmly planted on the path of degeneration. Even the accumulation of wealth by the one percent has reached its peak and the only way forward has to be down.

The current system denies reality. That is why the president of arguably the most powerful nation on Earth can wake up and exit from a global effort to fight a common challenge: climate change. That is when power trumps good sense. This myopic power denies science and even defies reasonable self-interest. Although the Paris Agreement is largely inadequate, the pulling away of the USA, the second largest greenhouse emitter, from the global climate space, as outrageous as it is, only confirms that power only respects primitive self-interest.

Sustainability is not just a measure of a thing being available or useable in perpetuity. It also connotes its staying recognisable in form and speaks of intergenerational justice and responsibilities.

Re-Source democracy calls for a re-turn to the source, a re-connection to Nature. It calls for a recovery of memory. It calls for a dream of our preferred future or even multiple futures. It calls for the recognition of the fact that humans are just one of the species on Planet Earth and that we are a part of a system whose survival depends on interrelationships and solidarity.

To ensure Re-Source democracy, we have to be immersed in the defence of life and staying in the battle line against inequality as well as political and social injustices. We have to build a future that promotes cooperative and collaborative behaviours. That is what creates shared abundance, the good life or eti uwem. Scarcity is promoted by competition and that breeds all sorts of social and environmental misbehaviours.

Nature is self-regenerating, but human and corporate activities have brought in disruptions of those circles and cycles of life. Examples include the utter degradation of our environment by oil spills, gas flares, toxic wastes, industrial effluents and the like. It includes the exploitation of re-sources without prior informed consent of citizens in the territories. We have to pause to ask what the Niger Delta will look like by the close of the century. What would be the situation of the far North if desertification is not checked? What would be the case of our territories if gully erosion and deforestation continue unabated?

Environmental degradation disrupts our linkages to Nature, shrivels our humanity and throws us into unhealthy rivalry and struggles for whatever goods remain. It alters our thought patterns and social relations. It makes the unacceptable appear attractive and even acceptable. How would anyone drink water that is visibly polluted or eat foods that are clearly known to be toxic? How would we accept these without major uprisings?

What would make Nigeria stay in the present unsuitable unitary national architecture fabricated by military adventurers to suit their command structure? How could we dream of building a democratic and federal nation on the basis of autocratic and dictatorial military scaffolds? More questions can be asked, but let us restrict ourselves to the way we have treated Nature’s gifts to our nation. The arrival of crude oil and petroleum resources literally poisoned and damaged our environment, economy, politics and socio-cultural relationships. Agriculture got ignored, manufacturing got side-lined and all eyes got riveted on US dollars flowing into the national pot. We became captives of voodoo economics. Do nothing, grab everything.

Re-Source Democracy requires that we train our eyes to see what Nature has presented to every community and to what extent the communities are involved in decisions that affect the exploitation, protection or use of the re-sources in their territories. It requires that no one gets killed or colonised simply because of such endowments. It requires that we question how what we have is utilised and on what basis. It is about our right to life, freedom from contamination and respect of the Rights of Mother Earth.

We have hopes that unpacking the concept of Re-Source Democracy will provide us with ideas on how to redirect the nation from divisive and exploitation pathways and provide the platforms for truly democratic relationships with each other and with Nature – one that is built on local knowledge and wisdom. It should help us cultivate mutual respects between the many groupings in our nation. It should above all help encourage us to handle the gifts of Nature with due deference.

Civil society groups call for immediate clean-up of Ogoniland

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Civil society groups call for immediate clean-up of Ogoniland

The Environmental Rights Action, Amnesty International, and Friends of the Earth Europe on Friday, June 2, 2017 called for the immediate clean-up of Ogoniland in Nigeria, as it was stated should happen by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Ogoniland-Spill
Land degradation from oil spill in Ogoniland, Nigeria

One year on from when the implementation of UNEPs report on Ogoniland was officially supposed to begin, the communities of the Niger Delta are still waiting for clean-up to start.

Since the current President, Muhammadu Buhari, was elected, the governing structures for the UNEP implementation have been put in place and a coordinator was appointed to lead HYPREP, the implementation agency.

But, six years after publication of the UNEP Environmental Assessment of Ogoniland, very little has happened to improve the situation, said the activists, even as they listed areas of concern to include:

  • Communities in Ogoniland are still waiting for clean-up and still waiting for the clean air, water, and land they need.
  • Only 1% of the promised funds have been made available: a reported $10m of the required $1billion budget has been transferred.
  • Some communities where UNEP found contaminated drinking water wells have never received any alternative source of drinking water.
  • Shell continues to use the discredited RENA clean-up process, despite UNEP’s clear recommendation that the process was ineffective and should be discontinued.
  • The company also says it has revisited 15 oil spill sites identified by UNEP, and carried out further remediation at 6 of those sites. But this is misleading because UNEP found contamination at more than 50 Shell locations.
  • Meanwhile an Amnesty International investigation found that heavy contamination remained at four oil spill sites identified by UNEP, despite the fact remediation work had been carried out by Shell.

“Six years after the UNEP report the communities of Ogoniland are still unacceptably waiting for action to clean up their land and water. Justice cannot be endlessly delayed, the Nigerian government needs to urgently ensure the plan is implemented immediately,” said Godwin Ojo, head of the Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria.

Meanwhile the oil industry continues discredited practices and fails to ensure Ogoniland is free of pollution, he stresses, alleging that Shell is using the government clean-up process as an excuse for not properly cleaning-up past pollution.

“Its responsibility is clear – it stops and cleans up it’s pollution now,” said the Amnesty International.

The UNEP report called for the implementation of emergency measures, the establishment of a $1 billion start-up fund and extensive clean-up of Ogoniland.

“It’s overdue that the start-up fund is immediately fully funded and the clean-up operation fully staffed. A clear priority should be the immediate delivery of all emergency and priority measures outlined in the UNEP report – no more delays, ’’ said Colin Roche, of the Friends of the Earth Europe.

World Environment Day: Chevron highlights commitment to connecting people to nature

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World Environment Day: Chevron highlights commitment to connecting people to nature

The World Environment Day (WED), held annually on June 5, is the biggest event to celebrate and promote environmental awareness and sustainability across the globe. Established by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in 1972, WED aims to raise global awareness and mobilise humans to take positive environmental action to protect nature and the planet Earth.

Jeff Ewing
Jeff Ewing, CMD of Chevron Companies in Nigeria

This global event is not only the principal vehicle through which the UN stimulates worldwide awareness of the environment, but it also gives a human perspective to environmental issues, empowers people to become active agents of sustainable development and advocates multi-stakeholder partnerships in support of the environment. From 1973, when the first WED was held, the event has always been marked with different campaign themes and discussions focusing on environmental stewardship.

“Connecting People to Nature”, the theme for WED Day 2017, implores everyone to get outdoors and into nature, to appreciate its beauty and its importance, and to take forward the call to protect the Earth that we share. According to the UN, the 2017 WED invites people to think about how they are part of nature and how intimately they depend on it. The UN notes that in recent decades, scientific advances as well as growing environmental problems such as global warming are helping the world to understand the countless ways in which natural systems support people’s prosperity and well-being.

Happily, some corporate bodies have made environmental stewardship part of their social investments. Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) – operator of the joint venture between the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and CNL (NNPC/CNL JV) – is one of such organisations. For over 50 years, CNL has remained an active agent of sustainable development and a strong advocate of partnerships in support of the environment.

Explaining CNL’s commitment to the environment, the Chairman/Managing Director, Jeff Ewing, noted that CNL is happy to be part of the solution to global environmental issues wherever the company operates through its sound environmental management policy that supports environmental stewardship and sustainable development.

According to him, CNL has in place a company-wide health, environment and safety guideline to ensure that its performance is world-class.

“In Nigeria, our Operational Excellence obliges us to deliver industry-leading performance in process safety, personal safety and health, environment, reliability and efficiency to achieve world-class performance. CNL has a record of responsible environmental stewardship everywhere it operates and has also established enduring partnerships with governments, non–governmental organisations, business organisations and communities. CNL has been supporting and sponsoring various programmes aimed at preserving the environment. These partnerships and efforts have been recognised and rewarded within and outside the country,” he remarked.

 

Nature Conservation and Education

CNL’s commitment to preserving the environment has left enduring landmarks in the landscape, including the Lekki Conservation Centre (LCC) – a centre of excellence in environmental research and education reserved as a sanctuary for the rich flora and fauna of the Lekki Peninsula. This 78-­hectare facility is the only one of its kind in the Lagos area and it was established by CNL in partnership with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) in 1992. NCF is Nigeria’s foremost non-governmental organisation dedicated to environmental conservation and an affiliate of the World-Wide Fund for Nature. Support for the LCC best connects CNL’s activities to the theme of the WED 2017.

In 2005, CNL established a yearly postgraduate research scholarship for PhD students in environment and conservation. In addition, CNL hosts the annual S. L. Edu Memorial Lecture to promote environmental management awareness. The company is also working with the NCF on the possibility of establishing the Niger Delta Conservation Centre.

 

Environmental Stewardship

CNL’s environmental stewardship process lays the foundation for sound environmental management through inclusion of the environment in decision making from the identification, assessment and management of environmental risks at project inception, to operations and through decommissioning. CNL recognises the importance of minimising its environmental footprints and conserving biodiversity. The NNPC/CNL JV strives continually to achieve world class environmental excellence by assessing and reducing its environmental footprints and any potential impact from its operations on the environment.

CNL, while working with relevant environmental protection agencies, has also developed and is implementing internal processes to identify, assesses, mitigate and manage potentially significant risk and impacts to human health and the environment (including natural resources) associated with its existing operations and capital projects, including emissions, releases and wastes in a consistent and systematic manner. The company effectively engages its stakeholders and obtains alignment on its projects and proposals.

 

Gas flare-out strategy

CNL has a strategic phase development for commercialisation of produced gas throughout its operations. Some of its key projects to reduce gas flaring include: Escravos Gas Project, West African Gas Pipeline Project, Escravos Gas-to-Liquids Project, Sonam Field Development Project, Abiteye and Makaraba Non-Associated Gas (NAG) Development projects, amongst others.

From 2008 to 2016, the NNPC/CNL JV reduced routine gas flaring by over 90% through sustained investments, demonstrating its strong commitment to elimination of routine flaring and beneficial utilisation of gas resources. The company remains an industry leader in growing supply of high quality gas to the domestic and regional markets, with a strong focus on operational excellence, environmental stewardship and enduring stakeholder partnerships.

 

Old Land Drill Sites

CNL took inventory of its old land drill sites that are not in use and embarked on priority restoration work to return the sites to their initial states, and revert the restored sites to their original owners.

 

Putting Back: Restoring the Mangrove

CNL continues to develop and implement sound conservation practices through mangrove restoration, utilising a combination of modern afforestation techniques, including natural recovery and direct planting of mangroves. CNL commenced the regeneration of the mangrove vegetation with a pilot scheme involving the planting of mangrove seedlings of different species at selected locations.

 

Recognitions

The Nigerian Government, in 1999, acknowledged these efforts when the then Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) presented the company with its Environmental Achievement Award, which was the first of such awards in the industry.  Similarly, in 2001, the Nigerian Environmental Society (NES) awarded CNL the Star Merit Award on Environment, in recognition of its contributions to the sustenance of the Nigerian ecology and its support for society’s activities. In 2016, the company was bestowed with the “Green Label Award” by NES in recognition of CNL’s laudable projects on sustainable development of the environment, good environmental management and conservation practices.

In addition, the NCF honoured the company with two awards – Sustained Support for Environmental Excellence and Conservation Leadership – in 2002 and 2010 respectively. In 2006, the Delta State Government honoured CNL with the Best Oil Company in Oil Spill Management Practices award, while the Environmental Health Officers Registration Council of Nigeria gave CNL a Corporate Good Environment Health Practice Award for the company’s “commitment to responsible environmental stewardship” in Nigeria.

Esimaje Brikinn, CNL’s General Manager, Policy, Government and Public Affairs, notes that, beyond the awards, CNL is ever willing to continue to collaborate with all stakeholders to safeguard the environment.

“We are continually working to improve our processes to reduce pollution and waste, conserve natural resources, and reduce potentially negative environmental impacts of our activities and operations,” he remarked.

Paris Agreement withdrawal: Trump in discord with reality – Activists

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Paris Agreement withdrawal: Trump in discord with reality – Activists

The decision to withdraw the US from the Paris Agreement signals that the Trump Administration is in total discord with both reality and the rest of the world, the Climate Action Network (CAN) has said.

Presidential-Trump
US president, Donald Trump

According to the group, the first to suffer from “the injudicious decision” is the American people.

“This action is totally contrary to their best interests: their health, security, food supply, jobs and future.

“By turning its back on climate action, the Trump administration burdens the American people with rising costs and risks from pollution, environmental degradation and lost opportunities in a low-carbon economy and renewable energy jobs. None of this will make America great, in any way.

The overwhelming show of support from the international community in the past weeks, defending the Paris Accord, is a reminder that the world is wasting no time on laggards when it comes to climate action,” the group adds.

Leading international climate experts and advocates who are part of CAN have respectively commented on the announcement .

Jonathan Church, lawyer, ClientEarth: “Trump’s decision to pull the US out of the Paris Agreement is an act of global environmental vandalism that has the potential to do great harm to current and future generations. Even without the US as a party, Paris still represents our best chance of avoiding severe and destabilising climate change. The rest of the world must continue to build on Paris to speed the transition to a cleaner, lower-carbon world. The direction of travel is clear, and climate action will continue globally and within the US, as states and businesses continue to drive progress. In the meantime the commitment of the UK, the EU and other leading nations is more important than ever.”

Wendel Trio, Director, Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe: “As global temperatures hit record high every year now, the world is rightfully outraged by the decision to withdraw the US from the Paris Agreement.
We welcome the strong statements from all other world leaders that their countries will not withdraw their commitments, goals, policies and actions related to climate change. Unlike the view of the current US administration, countries all over the world see the Paris Agreement as an engine for growth and jobs.The EU is already strengthening its alliances with countries like China and Canada, as well as those most affected by climate change.  The EU needs to step up its game now, to trigger more climate action and smooth the way for scaling up the Paris climate pledges.”

Catherine Abreu, Executive Director, Climate Action Network Canada: “Canada has quickly established a track record of collaborating and working across differences to launch coherent climate strategies. Now is the moment for Canada to take that to the next level, and emerge on the world stage as a bold climate leader. Trump may be ready to abandon the benefits associated with climate action, including improved air quality and human health, job creation in emerging industries, and international influence. Yet it is clear that American states, communities, and businesses are not willing to make the same sacrifice. Canadian governments and citizens will continue to work with these entities and allies in Mexico to maintain North American momentum on climate action.”

Mohamed Adow, International Climate Lead, Christian Aid: “The historic Paris Agreement was achieved thanks in large part to US climate diplomacy, but it will succeed with or without the US, as the rest of the world remain committed to the low-carbon transition. The 20th Century was powered by fossil fuels and America dominated the world. The 21st Century will be powered by clean energy and Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement could mark the end of American supremacy.”

Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director, Oxfam International: “The world’s biggest historic emitter walking away from its climate change commitments is gravely unjust, but we must respond by redoubling our efforts. Those on the frontlines of climate change demand nothing less.”

Keya Chatterjee, Executive Director, US Climate Action Network: “Trump has no mandate from the US public to weaken the Paris Agreement, and should not be making big decisions while under investigation. This cowardly failure to lead will only make us stronger as a movement as we push harder for just and equitable climate action.”

Susann Scherbarth, climate justice and energy campaigner for Friends of the Earth Europe: “Trump has cast America adrift from the global community and the reality of climate change. The fossil fuel industry and climate change deniers have set up shop in the White House, and they’re putting the lives and livelihoods of millions of people on the line. This should be a trigger for increased action on climate in Europe, to end fossil fuel dependency by 2030.”

Erich Pica, Friends of the Earth U.S. President: “Donald Trump is on a mission to sacrifice our planet to the fossil fuel industry. By pulling out of the Paris Agreement, Trump has turned the United States into the world’s foremost climate villain.

“The rest of the world must move forward aggressively without the world’s leading historical contributor of greenhouse gas emissions. Friends of the Earth U.S. calls on all nations to assert heavy economic and diplomatic pressure to compel the Trump Administration to take serious climate action to protect people and the planet.
The majority of Americans reject Trump’s extreme agenda and demand climate action. Today’s announcement only strengthens our resistance.”

Federico Brocchieri, Vice President, Italian Climate Network (ICN): “In a world where climate change impacts are affecting millions of people every day, President Trump’s decision to leave the Paris Agreement is shortsighted and against history. However, this will not stop the transition: from countries to cities, from businesses to citizens the world has taken a very clear path which must gradually lead to a full decarbonisation of the economy, in line with the targets set by science, to leave current and future generations a sustainable planet.

“We welcome statements from other countries as well as those from states and cities in the US, reaffirming their commitment to continue working to combat climate change and all inequalities arising from it.”

Jennifer Morgan, Greenpeace International Executive Director: “Withdrawing from the Paris Agreement will turn America from a global climate leader into a flat earth society of one. It is a morally-bankrupt decision that Trump will come to regret. Global climate action is not a legal or political debate, it is an inescapable obligation to protect people and planet.

“Trump is surrendering US global leadership to real world leaders who are seizing the momentum to protect their country and the climate by transforming their economies to clean energy. We are witnessing a seismic shift in the global order as Europe, China and others lead the way forward.

“Almost 200 countries committed to climate action in Paris and only one has decided to withdraw. This is how far out of step Trump is with the rest of the world. It is the changing of the global guard – as the US bows out, world leaders, CEOs and people across the world can and are moving forward into the future.”

Brandon Wu, Director of Policy and Campaigns, ActionAid USA: “Millions of people around the world are already forced to live with a climate crisis they didn’t cause. By taking this step, the Trump administration continues to put its fingers in its ears and turn its back on the rest of the world. All countries should see this U.S. administration for what it is – a mouthpiece for some of the world’s dirtiest industries – and must move forward without the U.S. for now, resisting all further attempts by Trump to undermine progress in the fight against climate change.”

Hans Verolme, Senior Strategic Adviser, Climate Advisers Network: “I’d like to say to the Trump Administration: If you leave, then leave. From now on the rest of the world will move forward. We don’t need you to interfere with the Paris Agreement.”

Denise Auclair, Interim Secretary General, CIDSE: “It is a particularly harsh response from the perspective of countries in the Global South that are striving to limit their own carbon emissions and are experiencing the worst impacts of climate change; these communities are witnessing destruction of their land, environment, and traditional practices in support of a global economy with limited benefits for them. This decision by the United States should be a signal to the other 194 signatories to redouble their efforts, strengthen their commitments, and reject the fossil-fuel-based economy that the Trump administration is pushing forward.”

Osprey Orielle Lake, Executive Director, Women’s Earth and Climate Action Network (WECAN International): “In the face of a dangerous and failing Trump administration, and its withdrawal of the US from the Paris Climate Accord, the Women’s Earth and Climate Action Network stands in solidarity with our partners, frontline communities and Indigenous peoples worldwide as we continue to organize ceaselessly and rise ever more boldly to end extraction of fossil fuels and the destruction of the planet for profit and power. Women worldwide are working everyday to protect our lands, waters, climate and children’s futures – and though the challenges and injustices we face are many – women will be undeterred in our action and advocacy for a just and livable world.”

Michelle Nunn, president and CEO, CARE USA: “U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement will erode America’s standing in the world at a time when global cooperation is needed more than ever. Coming on the heels of a budget proposal that, if enacted, would increase suffering among the poorest and make the world a more dangerous place, the Trump Administration’s intention to withdraw from the Paris Agreement is another failure of U.S. leadership. Addressing climate change is critical to the continued progress to combat extreme poverty and to alleviate humanitarian crises. Walking away from the Paris Agreement now is a sign that America is prepared, not only to stand in isolation, but also to walk away from its partners, from its moral responsibility, and from the promise it owes to future generations of a healthy and safe planet.”

Farhana Yamin, Founder and CEO, Track 0: The Paris Agreement is a lifeline for small islands and vulnerable communities everywhere. President Trump’s decision to withdraw from Paris will not bring prosperity to the US. It will create further injustice for those who have contributed little to climate change.

Erika Lennon, Senior Attorney, Centre for International Environmental Law (CIEL): “The Trump Administration’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement is reckless, irresponsible, and unjust.  Climate change is already wreaking havoc and demands action. This overwhelming recognition that climate action can no longer wait led to the rapid entry into force of the Paris Agreement, and the Trump Administration’s misguided decision does not change that.  People, businesses, US cities and states, and countries around the world will keep moving forward to address the climate threat with or without this Administration.

“Donald Trump’s decision to pull the US out of Paris will not save the coal industry or fossil fuels, but instead will slow the urgent action that is needed and undermine the ability of the US to negotiate any international agreement, leaving it isolated and irrelevant. Mr. Trump may be out, but he doesn’t speak for the world.  The rest of us are still in. The future demands nothing less.”

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