Wetlands International (WI) through her regional office in Dakar, Senegal and country office in Nigeria is assisting some Niger Delta communities in alleviating poverty and sustaining their wetland ecosystem services via an incentive system known as Bio-Rights.
Abobiri beneficiaries with cheque
Bio-Rights is a microcredit finance mechanism that combines poverty reduction and environmental improvement (restoration or/and conservation). WI provides funding to local communities to be actively involved in environmental conservation and restoration activities in return for the communities’ support to refrain from unsustainable practices.
Micro-credits are converted into definitive payments upon successful delivery of conservation or/and restoration services at the end of a contracting period. The conservation actions through Bio-Rights have economic and environmental benefits – not only for local people but at the global level as well. For instance, replanting mangrove forests can increase fish stocks locally while storing carbon that helps limit climate change globally. Bio-Rights is thus able to bridge the gap between local and global interests.
On the 19th of June 2015, WI disbursed funds through Wetland Micro Finance Bank, Warri, Delta State to 25 Sustainable Livelihoods and Biodiversity Project (SLBP) beneficiaries in Obiayagha community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Opume beneficiaries with cheque
Also, on the 23rd and 24th June, 2015 WI gave out funds through Equator Micro Finance Bank, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State to 14 SLBP beneficiaries in Abobiri Community and 21 SLBP beneficiaries in Opume Community both in Ogbia Local Government of Bayelsa State respectively, to improve their livelihood and sustain the environment. The disbursement ceremony in Obiayagha community was chaired by Mr. Obi-ebi Emamezi, the Director of Forestry and Conservation, Delta State Ministry of Environment, while that of Abobiri and Opume communities was chaired by Chief Cloude Eze, the Director of Forestry and Conservation, Bayelsa State Ministry of Environment.
Bio-Right approach unites the conservation and development aspirations of NGOs, governments, private sector players and local communities alike. Projects in the field have demonstrated that Bio-Rights serve as a powerful tool that addresses the major environmental challenges of our age, including climate change and biodiversity loss. In the light of major efforts in relation to Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD) and the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and even the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Bio-rights have the potential to translate global objectives into concrete action.
In demonstration of its commitment to the global efforts to curb global warming by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, Nigeria has formally kick-started the process of preparation of the Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs), writes Olufemi Adeosun
Christiana Figueres, Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC
The need for all parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to be committed to setting realistic target towards reducing the greenhouse gas emissions formed the fulcrum of discussion during the 19th session of the multilateral climate forum which took place in Warsaw, Poland in 2013.
One of the resolutions arrived at the meeting was the need for all parties to the convention to submit their Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs). The document is expected to contain policies and programmes that align with the global attempt to reduce the level of global warming by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
According to environment experts, the borderless nature of the negative effects of climate change has compelled nations of the world to come together to explore ways of addressing the drift. They noted that although the level of technological advancement in the developed economies has made them major emitters, the negative effects of it is more biting on the developing nations because of their low resilience status.
Dr. Samuel Adejuwon, Director, Department of Climate Change in the Federal Ministry of Environment
For instance, in Nigeria, the extreme desert encroachment in the northern parts of the country, erosion problem in the East, menace of ocean surge and flooding in the South-West have been regarded as manifestations of the negative effects of climate change.
These environmental challenges, they added, are not only constituting a blight on the poverty alleviation programmes of successive governments in Nigeria, they are aiding the worsening security situation confronting the country.
It is against this background that environment experts during a recent stakeholders’ forum in Abuja urged the new administration to utilise the opportunity availed through the development of the INDCs document to embark on policies and progrmmes that would not only help to address, in a sustainable manner some of these climate change induced challenges, but also help to steer the country on the path of low carbon economy and high growth without jeopardising its development priorities.
As part of the processes for the successful submission of the document in September, Nigeria had two months ago hosted a Project Initiation Workshop in April 2015, in Abuja. It also recently commissioned a British environmental consulting firm of Ricardo-AEA to execute the project. The consortium, which is being led by a climate change policy expert, Hans Verolme, will be supported by local experts such as Prof. Olukayode Oladipo who is also a leading climate change expert and James Okeuhie.
Speaking at the sidelines of the consultants/stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, the Director, Climate Change Department, Ministry of Environment, Dr Samuel Adejuwon, underscored the significance of the INDCs to the country. According to him, apart from helping the country to develop its developmental programmes across the various sectors of the nation’s national life in a greener manner, it would also help to address some of its environmental challenges in a sustainable manner.
On the modalities for the production of the document, he said: “The whole exercise (INDCs) will consider some priority sectors, look at the baseline and look at our needs too for development and see what we can put on the table that we are going to strive to mitigate in terms of greenhouse gases (GHGs). And it is not something you just rush into without understanding because you are never too sure whether the potential agreement in Paris will be legally binding.”
According to him, the requirement for countries to submit their commitments ahead of the conference is to see if they will be able to address the impact of climate change. He, however, maintained that the ministry had held series of workshops to fulfil its commitment to climate change conventions and protocols as well as exploit opportunities as a party to the protocols.
Prof. Oladipo stated that the development of the document would enable the country diversify its energy base, particularly the need to do away with fossil fuel.
He said, “Maybe many who do not understand it means may be underestimating it. But, as an expert, it points to the fact that whether Nigeria likes it or not, the era of fossil fuel is over. Every country is now exploring how to use lesser energy for more things in an efficient manner, how to rely on renewable energy sources than what we are doing and how to be able to drive our economy through reduced energy consumption without actually reducing the rate at which our economy is growing.”
When reminded that implementation of policies has always been a problem in Nigeria, he maintained that the present administration had demonstrated sufficient commitment to the issue of climate change and such the issue of whether it would be able to muster the needed political will to push it through should not arise.
“I have to be honest with you and I have been saying it since President Buhari assumed the leadership of the country that, for the first time, we have a Nigerian President who reflected climate change in his electoral campaigns. Not only that. During his inauguration, climate change was recognised as one of the challenges that government will face. That gives me the confidence and the joy that Nigeria is now recognising the importance of carrying climate change along the developmental path. I am confident this government will accord it a pride of place. Moreover, the document must be approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC).”
Also, a Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos and member, National Committee on COP21, Prof Babajide Alo, noted that beyond Paris, INDCs would be an action plan that would be of immense benefit to the nation as it would help it develop policies that promotes green living.
In particular, he said, the document would help the country reduce the effect of climate change, reduce flooding.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Country Director, Dr Pa Lamin Beyai, noted that the process was extremely important for Nigeria in view of its leadership role within the African continent.
He said: “The process is extremely important for Nigeria because of the leadership role Nigeria stands to play in the area of climate change negotiation in Africa. If Nigeria is serious about pushing forward the climate change agenda, it is important that the INDCs be developed in a very robust manner. That is why the UNDP supported the preliminary discussion on the INDCs. We will continue to support Nigeria in its climate change efforts.”
A report by the All Progressives Congress (APC) asking the Muhammadu Buhari administration to discard the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) is not only unfortunate but is one that will also embolden oil multinationals to continue their impunity which has polluted the Niger Delta and eroded Nigeria’s revenues, the Environmental Rights Action/ Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) has warned.
Ibuu Creek polluted by an oil spill, in Okwuzi Community in Rivers State. According to ERA/FoEN, Niger Delta communities have suffered degradation and neglect. Photo credit: Dandy Mgbenwa
The APC, had in the report on Bloomberg which was confirmed by its Policy Director, Kayode Fayemi, said the president should discard the PIB and replace it with a new reform bill that is based on discussions with international oil companies to “ensure all perspectives are adequately considered”.
But the ERA/FoEN in a statement issued in Lagos on Monday July 6, 2015 described the call as “very disturbing” in light of the support the PIB has garnered in the last four years from civil society groups and Niger Delta communities that have suffered degradation and neglect.
ERA/FoEN Executive Director, Godwin Ojo, said: “We are perplexed at this call coming at a time that Nigerians are demanding environmental accountability and a say on how oil multinationals operate in the environment.”
Ojo noted that while the APC made some positive recommendations which included a review of audits and corruption allegations against the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), however, “calling on the government to discard the PIB will amount to government lacking the political will to hold oil multinationals accountable for their human rights violations, environmental degradation and the application of the polluter pays principle.”
He added: “The APC government should not set a bad precedent by disappointing the expectations of the Niger Delta people who remain shell-shocked by the rigmarole of the immediate past administration of Goodluck Jonathan in pushing a strong legislation through. That government also failed to implement the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Assessment on Ogoniland. We believe that a strong PIB will promote the interest of local communities and the protection and preservation of the Nigerian environment.”
The ERA/FoEN boss recommended that “the Buhari administration must sieve the recommendations and show good example by listening to the voice of the people which is overwhelmingly in support of a strong PIB”.
“It is now time to stop paying lip service to environmental sustainability and hold those who violate the environment of the Niger Delta accountable. Nothing short of the peoples demand for a strong PIB is acceptable,” Ojo insisted.
A new report released by the Global Commission on the Economy and the Climate identifies 10 key economic opportunities that could close up to 96 percent of the gap between business-as-usual emissions and the level needed to limit dangerous climate change. The report calls for stronger cooperation between governments, businesses, investors, cities and communities to drive economic growth in the emerging low-carbon economy.
Former President of Mexico Felipe Calderón, Chair of the Commission. Photo credit: mpiweb.org
“This report shows that success is possible: we can achieve economic growth and close the dangerous emissions gap,” said former President of Mexico Felipe Calderón, Chair of the Commission. “Today’s report shows us that a goal we once thought of as distant is within our reach. We can achieve global prosperity and secure a safe climate together. The low carbon economy is already emerging. But governments, cities, businesses and investors need to work much more closely together and take advantage of recent developments if the opportunities are to be seized. We cannot let these opportunities slip through our fingers.”
The new report, Seizing the Global Opportunity: Partnerships for Better Growth and a Better Climate, shows how recent trends in the global economy – such as the dramatically falling cost of clean energy, the continuing volatility of oil prices, and the worldwide growth of carbon pricing – are building momentum for low-carbon development.
“More and more countries are committing to integrating climate action into national economic plans, from the recent G7 statement on the need to decarbonise the economy by the end of the century, to the development of low-carbon and climate resilient growth strategies in a number of developing and emerging economies”, said Lord Nicholas Stern, leading economist and Co-chair of the Commission. “Strong economic growth that is also low-carbon is going to be the new normal.”
The Commission’s 10 recommendations include:
Scaling up partnerships between cities, like the Compact of Mayors, to drive low-carbon urban development. Investment in public transport, building efficiency, and better waste management, could save around US$17 trillion globally by 2050.
Enhancing partnerships such as REDD+, the 20×20 Initiative in Latin America, and the Africa Climate-Smart Agriculture Alliance to bring together forest countries, developed economies and the private sector to halt deforestation by 2030 and restore degraded farmland. This would enhance agricultural productivity and resilience, strengthen food security, and improve livelihoods for agrarian and forest communities.
Governments, development banks and the private sector should collaborate to reduce the cost of capital for clean energy, with the goal of investing US$1 trillion in developed and developing countries by 2030.
The G20 should raise energy efficiency standards in the world’s leading economies for goods such as appliances, lighting, and vehicles. Investment in energy efficiency could boost cumulative economic output globally by US$18 trillion by 2035.
Action to reduce emissions from aviation and shipping under international treaties and from hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the Montreal Protocol could reduce emissions by as much as 2.6 Gt in 2030. In shipping alone, higher efficiency standards are expected to save an average of US$200 billion in annual fuel costs by 2030.
The Commission calculates that its recommendations could achieve up to 96 percent of the emissions reductions in 2030 that are needed to hold the rise in global temperature to under 2°C, the level which governments have pledged not to cross.
The report finds that businesses are already driving a growing US$5.5 trillion global market for low-carbon goods and services. It calls for new business partnerships to open new markets, share costs, and reduce concerns about the international competitiveness impacts of climate policy.
“Businesses are already preparing for a low-carbon future, and in many ways are ahead of the curve. For instance, companies representing 90 percent of the global trade in palm oil, including ours, have committed to deforestation-free supply chains by 2020”, says Paul Polman, CEO of Unilever.
The Commission argues that the actions identified in Seizing the Global Opportunity would enhance the national pledges (“Intended Nationally Determined Contributions,” or INDCs) already being submitted by countries to the UNFCCC for the Paris climate conference. It urges INDCs to be seen as “floors, not ceilings” to national emissions reduction targets.
“We know that the current INDC pledges are not likely to get us to the 2°C world we need. But this report shows there is significant room for stronger action that is in countries’ economic self-interest,” said Michael Jacobs, Report Director, New Climate Economy. “It is therefore vital that the Paris climate agreement sets in motion a regular process for strengthening national commitments, on the way to the long-term goal of reducing emissions to near-zero in the second half of this century.”
“This report highlights the huge opportunity countries now have to scale up climate action while also driving growth and development,” said Helen Mountford,GlobalProgramme Director of the New Climate Economy. “Global economic growth and carbon emissions are beginning to be decoupled: last year, for the first time in decades, emissions held steady while the global economy grew. But the pace of change needs to be accelerated if we are to meet our development goals and also reduce climate risks.”
Some global leaders offered comments:
Caio Koch-Weser, Vice Chairman, Deutsche Bank Group; Chair, European Climate Foundation: “Low-carbon sectors are a massive growth area for businesses and governments alike. Major infrastructure investments, supported by the cooperation of public and private financial sectors, are critical in unlocking this global economic opportunity, particularly in emerging markets.”
Chad Holliday, Chairman, Shell: “Momentum is building for a New Climate Economy. Business follows the money, and the money can increasingly be found in low-carbon economic growth. It’s time for governments to give us a clear policy foundation and let us get on with the job of making the transition.”
Naina Lal Kidwai, Chairman, HSBC India and Director, HSBC Asia Pacific: “We cannot tackle poverty successfully without also tackling climate change. International cooperation can drive both more inclusive economic growth and more ambitious climate mitigation, reducing the risks to the world’s poor. Businesses can play a major role in this, for instance, off-grid energy is a huge market in India and at the same time provides major social and environmental benefits. Together, a prosperous, low-carbon future is within our reach.”
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Former Minister of Finance, Nigeria: “African countries have a real opportunity to set themselves on a low-carbon growth path. With the support of the international community, critical investments that can be made in the next 15 years can ensure development goals, such as accelerated energy access and poverty eradication, are met and in way that doesn’t leave a polluted world at risk from climate change for future generations.”
Michael R. Bloomberg, UN Special Envoy for Cities and Climate Change, founder of Bloomberg LP, and former Mayor of New York City: “The New Climate Economy report highlights how strong action on climate change makes sound economic sense. Cities know from experience that cutting pollution can attract jobs and spur economic growth – the Compact of Mayors is helping them do that – and investors know that clean energy presents a major economic opportunity. The more that all levels of government can remove barriers to the clean energy market the more progress we’ll be able to make in the battle against climate change.”
Chen Yuan, Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference; Former Chairman of the China Development Bank (CDP): “China’s growth can be driven by innovation, efficiency, cleaner energy and air, and more compact and productive cities. China can be a leader among developing countries on the road to the Paris climate conference, showing that low-carbon growth is the new normal.”
Eduardo Paes, Mayor, Rio De Janeiro; Chair, C40: “Low-carbon cities represent a US$17 trillion economic opportunity. Compact, connected, and coordinated cities can generate stronger growth and increase the health and wellbeing of urban citizens. Cities around the world are already leading the way in implementing sustainable and innovative urban solutions, from better mobility systems that reduce traffic and pollution to enhanced measures to treat waste. By sharing and scaling-up these best practices, cities can accelerate global climate action and help close the emissions gap.”
Ricardo Lagos, Former President of Chile, and Professor at Large, Watson Institute for International Studies, Brown University: “We have clear evidence from countries around the world that actions to tackle climate change can also generate better, more sustainable economic growth. Seizing the Global Opportunity finds that halting deforestation and restoring degraded land will be critical in making sure that livelihoods and food security improve.”
Trevor Manuel, Former Minister and Chairperson of the South African Planning Commission; Former Finance Minister of South Africa: “The findings of this report, combined with those of the recent Africa Progress Report, prove that there are immense opportunities in the emerging low-carbon economy. Africa can ‘leapfrog’ the fossil-fuel based growth strategies of developed countries and become a leader in low-carbon development, exploiting its abundant – and currently under-utilised – renewable energy resources.”
Kristin Skogen Lund, Director-General, Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise: “2015 is a moment of opportunity to accelerate growth-enhancing climate action. Landmark conferences on development financing, the SDGs, and climate change have the potential to usher in a new era of international cooperation.”
Sharan Burrow, General Secretary, International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC): “Governments must take responsibility for a plan for industrial transformation and they need to work closely with trade unions to ensure this occurs through a just transition, supporting jobs, skills and community renewal.”
Helen Clark, Administrator, UNDP; Former Prime Minister of New Zealand: “Tackling climate change presents many opportunities for developing countries to spur economic growth, enhance resilience, and encourage more sustainable development pathways. Climate change action should no longer be seen as a cost, but rather as an important building block in achieving sustainable development. As this report shows, by halting the loss of our natural forests, we can significantly improve the lives of the 1.6 billion people who rely on forests for food, water, fuel, and medicine, as well as reduce global greenhouse gas emissions.”
Maria van der Hoeven, Executive Director, International Energy Agency (IEA): “Improving energy efficiency is crucial to sustained economic growth and meaningful climate action. It needs be seen as the “first fuel”. A more energy efficient world will have greater economic productivity and a smaller carbon footprint.”
Sri Mulyani Indrawati, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer, The World Bank; Former Finance Minister of Indonesia: “This report shows once again that climate action doesn’t require economic sacrifice. Smart policy choices can deliver economic, health and climate benefits for developed and developing countries alike. Multilateral Development Banks can play a crucial role in helping countries follow a transition to low carbon growth by using scarce government resources smartly and leveraging much larger, long-term private investments.”
Takehiko Nakao, President, Asian Development Bank: “Multilateral development banks are already investing heavily in infrastructure to ensure low-carbon and climate-resilient development. Increased investments in climate-smart infrastructure are vital in coming decades given the strong growth trends in Asia and the Pacific, coupled with rapid urbanisation and rising climate vulnerabilities.”
Seizing the Global Opportunity is a follow-up to Better Growth, Better Climate: The New Climate Economy Report, which was released in September 2014. The Global Commission is made up of 28 leaders in the fields of government, business and finance from 20 countries.
If plans by the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) eventually see the light of the day, the recently conceived Land Use Planning and Analysis Reporting (LUPAR) template will become operational by early next year.
President of the NITP, Dr Femi Olomola, who made this submission in Ibadan, Oyo State on Wednesday, July 1 2015, described the LUPAR as a novelty that seeks to expand the frontiers of Site Analysis Report (SAR) applications beyond the tradition of planning approvals.
He spoke at the formal opening of 17th edition of 2015 Mandatory Continuing Professional Development Programme (MCPDP) held at The Polytechnic, Ibadan. The two-day forum had “Development of a Multi User Template for Land Use Planning and Analysis Reporting in Nigeria” as its theme.
Prior to the Ibadan event, the first of the threesome 2015 MCDPDP held June 18-19 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The third is scheduled for August 5-6 in Kaduna, Kaduna State.
Specifically, the MCPDP is aimed at building consensus on the new template among the practitioners and to allow for inputs before the report will be presented at the institute’s annual general meeting later in October.
L-R: Chairman of the MCPDP, Prof. Adamu Ahmed; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Oyo State and representative of the Governor, Tpl. Busari Lekan; President of TOPREC, Prof. Layi Egunjobi; Dean, School of Environmental Studies, The Polythenic, Ibadan, Mr. J. A. Adebisi; Past President of the NITP, Tpl. Remi Makinde; and NITP chairman, Ibadan chapter, Tpl. Kola Lawal… at the 17th edition of the Mandatory Continuing Professional Development Programme of the institute held in Ibadan, Oyo State July 1st to 2nd, 2015
Conceived by the Femi Olomola-led administration, the LUPAR will also build on the existing SAR processes and procedures, as well as adding details of geographic references and further information relating to building types and conditions, title deeds, the local land use and development setting, and the permits granted on property.
The expanded areas of its application cut across various sectors of the economy, many of which have direct relevance to the financial sector and regulatory agencies.
According to the town planners, the new format LUPAR, in addition to other benefits, can become a very useful and authentic instrument that supports applications for opening of corporate bank accounts, process bank loans, make requests for Insurance cover, and incorporate/register new companies with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Besides, it will also address the traditional requirements of applications for building plan approval/permits, issuance of certificates of occupancies (C-of-Os), and potential value to security and regulatory agencies with oversight functions on crime and enforcement of standards, among others.
Dr Olomola, in his keynote address at the two-day programme, said that about 13 different areas of the economy have been identified where LUPAR will be useful
The NITP boss, who noted that the Urban and Regional Planning Decree 88 of 1992 clearly defines the legal and institutional framework for Land Use Planning in Nigeria, regretted that the nation is yet to get the environment of “our dream” till date.
Part of the reasons he adduced for this include: unavailability of tools needed for site visits, shortage of personnel, with less than 5,000 registered town planners in the country, among other factors.
He said that the institute cannot afford to wait for governments to provide all that is needed to achieve the dream environment, hence the idea of the new template that is aimed at addressing some of the identified gaps.
Besides the advantages of the report he listed, he said the template would also provide close to five million jobs for town planners in the country.
He said: “Between us and the next generation, there is a contract. It is out sacred duty to create the enabling environment to make the young/upcoming ones be convinced that the moment you genuinely struggle/work hard and get your certificate of registration with NITP and TOPREC, you can nod your head in fulfilment that it is not only a passport to good living but also to a fortune.
“Against this background priority number one on their seven-point agenda is job creation. We had earlier on stated the objective of creation of at least five million units of jobs per annum for RTPs which is designed to provide the much needed bread and butter income for the profession.”
Chairman of the MCPDP, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, said the 17th edition was aimed at building capacity for members with special attention on the evaluation of one of the planning issues now, the site analysis report.
He said the MCPDP was also aimed at building consensus on the development of a new template, the LUPAR, as an advisory instrument for planning institutions, financial agencies and other regulatory agencies.
Asked on the response from the previous forum held in Port Harcourt, Prof Adamu replied: “There is a lot of excitement from Port Harcourt. People saw reasons for the new template and they are happy that something will be provided for hitherto neglected areas.”
President, Town Planners Registration Council of Nigeria (TOPREC), Prof. Layi Egunjobi, described the theme of the programme is a welcome one, adding that it is making site analysis report and planning more robust not only in scope but also in methodology and economic value.
Egunjobi said the role of continuing education in a professional’s life is so important that it cannot be over-stressed. “So important it is that it touches not only in developing skills for practical purposes, but also for intellectual upgrading for deeper insights and critical thinking,” he declared.
Earlier in his welcome address, Chairman of Oyo State chapter of NITP, Mr. Kola Lawal, said the theme of this year’s MCPDP reflects growing recognition of the power and importance of Land Use Planning and Analysis Reporting in sustainable use and development of land.
He said the occasion is a veritable platform for stakeholders in the physical planning profession in Nigeria to highlight, discuss and support the emerging concept of Land Use Planning and Analysis Reporting in developing countries.
“Land use planning, as one important component of urban planning, can contribute significantly in addressing the major urban challenges if led by well-informed policies based on sustainable development principles and supported by well thought out and managed follow-up actions,” he said.
The well attended two-day workshop also had paper presentations on the LUPAR concept: Expanding the frontiers of site analysis reporting; Rationale for Land Use Planning and Analysis Report; Scope and Contents of the Land-use Planning and Analysis Report; Methodology for Preparation of the Land Use Planning and Analysis report and Obligation of the Town Planner in the preparation of the LUPAR.
The Sustainable Research & Action for Environmental Development (SRADev) Nigeria and World Alliance for Mercury Free Dentistry (WAMFD) are collaborating with the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) towards educating dental care consumers over the dangers inherent in the use of amalgam.
President, World Alliance for Mercury-Free Dentistry, Charles Brown (left); with executive director, SRADev Nigeria, Leslie Adogame
According to scientists, amalgam, which is used as a tooth filling in dental care, contains mercury, a substance considered dangerous to human health.
As part of a global programme to phase-down the use of dental amalgam, which is in line with the implementation of the Minamata Convention in the country, SRADev, WAMFD and CPC have adopted a “Consumer Tips” brochure to raise awareness. on the issue
Developed by the CPC, the brochure, it was gathered, would ensure the rights of the consumer – such as Right to Safety, Right to Information, Right to Choose, Right to Consumer Education and Right to a Healthy Environment – are protected and promoted.
The CPC director of Quality Assurance & Development, Amlai Emmanuel, informed officials of SRADev and WAMFD in a recent correspondence that the commission’s director-general had approved the draft brochure, and requested that they (SRADev and WAMFD) can commence its (the handbook’s) printing.
Charlie Brown and Leslie Adogame (left) with officials of the CPC during a recent roundtable in Abuja
Tagged “Dental fillings: The choice you have,” the six-page document highlights topics such as the toxic effects of mercury, toxicity of dental materials, and types of restorative fillings – which are listed to include: composite resin, dental amalgam, glass ionomer cement, resin ionomer cement, gold alloy and porcelain fused cement.
A heavy metal occurring in several forms, mercury can damage the brain, kidney and lungs.
The legally binding treaty, Minamata Convention on Mercury, requires nations to “phase down” the use of amalgam fillings and urges the use of mercury-free fillings. The Nigerian government has reportedly signed the treaty, signalling its commitment to reducing amalgam use.
Essentially, the brochure urges a consumer to:
inquire about mercury-free filling options from the dentist,
consider environmental impact of mercury from amalgam fillings,
consider helping to phase down amalgam filling use by choosing a mercury-free filling like composite resin or glass ionomer, and
A group of civil society organisations with a bias for sustainable cooking solutions in a joint statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, July 7, 2015 expressed reservations over the controversial N9.2 billion clean cookstoves project, which they say is giving the nation a bad name and hurting the businesses of local producers
The cookstoves imported under the N9.2 billion FG project
The Nigerian Alliance for Clean Cookstoves is a public-private partnership to save lives, our forests and empower women by providing safe and sustainable cooking solutions to households and institutions in Nigeria. The Alliance seeks to achieve these goals by influencing public policies, strengthen the supply chain for cooking energy solutions and enhance the demand for safe and sustainable cooking energy. Partners of the Alliance include key federal government agencies, companies, donors, NGOs and the media.
The Nigerian Alliance is deeply concerned over the implementation of the Federal Government of Nigeria’s N9.2 billion clean cookstoves project. Over 95,000 Nigerians, mostly women and children die annually from smoke from the kitchen. This is Nigeria’s third highest killer after Malaria and HIV/AIDS. In addition, Nigeria loses 3% of its forests annually partly as result of the cutting of trees for firewood. If the N9.2 billion set aside for this project was properly used, the lives of thousands of Nigerians and our forests would be saved and our women and youths will be empowered with new job opportunities.
Production going on in Happy’s Factory located in Suleja suburb
Partners of the Alliance are worried that controversies created by alleged lack of transparency and accountability in the award and implementation of the N9.2 billion project will damage the reputation of this emerging clean energy industry. Further, we are also concerned that the initiative focuses on the importation of stoves that can easily be produced by Nigerians. By investing this money in Nigeria, we could have created thousands of new jobs and supported new and existing small businesses.
The Alliance is further concerned about the impacts of the free distribution of stoves on the local industry. Many of our partners have seen sales of their clean cooking energy products plunge as a result of the anticipation of free stoves from the government. Ms Happy Amos of Roshan Global Renewable Energy Company is one example. Ms Amos was awarded the Federal Government’s YouWin grant two years ago. The young woman invested her grant in a small wood and charcoal stove factory in Dikko village, outside Suleja in Niger State. She sells her stoves in Niger, Kaduna and Plateau States and now employs about ten other young people. According to Ms Amos, “since the announcement of the government’s free stove project, sales have declined. Potential customers said they would rather wait for the government’s free stoves than buy my stoves. I have lost significant business as a result of this project. The government cannot give in one hand and take from the other,” she told partners of the Alliance.
Ms Happy Amos showing her finished product
Given the current controversy surrounding this contract, the Nigerian Alliance strongly recommends that the Federal Government invest the remaining N7.3 billion of this contract into domestic clean cooking energy production and distribution. These funds should go to soft loans, working capital and machineries, grants for training and capacity building as well as public awareness. The aim will be to expand the local distribution of cooking gas (LPG) and biofuels as well as the local production and distribution of efficient wood and charcoal stoves.
Despite a challenging business environment, Nigerian companies are expanding the production of clean cooking fuels such as LPG, ethanol and efficient wood and charcoal stoves. Over the past year, LPG consumption has experienced double digit growth, however, less than 5% of all our households use this locally produced cooking gas. Ethanol companies have set ambitious expansion plans but continue to struggle with access to finance. Several entrepreneurs such as Ms Amos are struggling to finance expansion plans for their ceramic, mud and metal efficient wood and charcoal stoves. Re-directing part of the N9.2 billion funding to local production and distribution will empower these companies to help save lives and our environment as well as create jobs for women and youths.
By investing the remaining N7.3 billion of this contract in local production, the Federal Government will create over 100,000 new direct and indirect jobs, and support at least five thousand new small businesses. At least half of this amount should be dedicated to women and youth entrepreneurship programmes for production of clean cookstoves using locally available raw materials.
The Nigerian Alliance proposes that the already procured stoves be set aside for high value humanitarian purposes such as support for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is already working with local and international partners to set up the Safe Access to Fuels and Energy for IDPs in the Northeast. These stoves could be part of this initiative.
Finally, partners of the Nigerian Alliance for Clean Cookstoves seek dialogue with the Federal Government over the re-design of this project to ensure it contributes to saving lives, forests and empower our women and youths.
The following partners of the Nigerian Alliance have endorsed this statement:
Alpha O. Center
Bio Solutions Ltd
Christian Aid
Clean Energy and Safe Environment Initiative
Community Research and Development Centre (CREDC)
Daily Trust Newspapers
Developmental Association for Renewable Energy (D.A.R.E.)
Double-Link Corporate Ventures
Energy Commission of Nigeria
Federal Ministry of Women Affairs
Follow the Money (CODE)
Gas on Wheels
Greenado Limited
Heinrich Boll Foundation
International Centre for Energy, Environment and Development (ICEED)
Musa Raymond Nigeria Company Limited
Nenu Stoves
Ozalla Hexagonal Technology
Quintas Renewable Energy Solutions
Roshan Global Services Limited
Rural Builders Organisation
Samaru College of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Every day, Evelyn Nimusiima’s family uses at least three 20-litre jerry cans of water for domestic purposes. Yet, the last time they planted a tree in their village of Rwenshanku, Bubaare parish in Uganda’s southwestern district of Mbarara was four years ago. And, due to severe land shortage, they have extended their crop garden into a nearby wetland.
For a single jerry can of water that Evelyn draws from the shallow well, she does not know what it takes and how long it takes that same volume of water to be regenerated into the same well.
“We virtually never think about such things. All we want as a family is water,” says Evelyn, as she draws water from the shallow well, using a yellow plastic jerry can.
Evelyn Nimusiima and her sister fetch water from a well in Rwenshanku, Bubaare parish in Uganda’s southwestern district of Mbarara. Water availability and sustainability is dependent on the way catchment areas are managed and subsequently how surface water is recharging deeper into the soil so that it can be retained by the aquifers. And yet, most water users in developing countries seem not to know this.
Evelyn is one of the millions of people, companies, business entities, and organisations worldwide that abstracted water from water bodies such as wells, rivers, lakes and underground sources for various purposes but do not complement in recharging them. And yet, water availability and sustainability is dependent on the way catchment areas are managed and subsequently how surface water is recharging deeper into the soil so that it can be retained by the aquifers.
Jeconeous Musingwire, an environmental scientist with Uganda’s environment watchdog – NEMA, thinks this is partly the reason why such communities in Uganda, and the rest of developing countries, are facing water shortage problems.
Some 663 million people worldwide are living without an improved source of water according to the just released joint monitoring programme by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and World Health Organisation (WHO).
“Granaries of water such as wetland resources, tropical forests must be conserved,” notes Jeconeous, stressing that this is the best way to attain, “water sustainability.”
Contrary to this, wetland resources worldwide are being subjected to massive destruction.
In sub-Saharan Africa, many wetland resources have been converted into crop gardens. In southern Asia, they have been turned into plantations of oil palm.
In a country like Uganda, over cultivation, over abstraction of water for domestic use, overgrazing and industrialisation have seen wetland resources such as – marshes, swamps, peat bogs, river deltas, tundra, mangroves and river flood plains – perish. Such resources used to cover over 13 percent of the total area of the country but have now been reduced to just 11 percent.
Recently Uganda’s government vowed to cancel land titles issued in wetlands but this is yet to be implemented.
A few people, mostly women and children in Uganda – and in several developing countries who are the majority that fetch water- know how important it is to recharge the water bodies that give them water.
Professor Ephraim Kamuntu, Ugandan’s minister for water and environment, says this is a mindset problem.
“The problem is that people think water comes as rain, and rain comes from heaven and it is God given,” notes Prof. Ephraim. “Water users must create a balance between demand and supply. The needs should not overstretch the supply.”
Prof. Kamuntu says the balance can be achieved through environmental conservation such as — conservation of wetlands resources, planting more trees, protecting water sources and extracting underground water carefully.
Ian Atamba, the Director Integrated Actions Network, an NGO that works closely with farmers to conserve environment maintains that there is still room for change.
“People perish because of ignorance. It is important to sensitize water users on such issues and this is what our network is doing,” notes Ian. “With time water users will get to know that they cannot only extract water from environment. They need to contribute towards its realization.”
Nigeria ranks among the most urbanised countries in the world, and perhaps the fastest urbanising country in the African continent. In 1980, the urbanisation rate was 28.6 percent rising to 35.3 percent in 1999 and 49.8% in 2010 with the rate projected to increase to 56.8 percent and 63.6 percent in 2020 and 2030 respectively. The number of urban centres increased from just 56 in 1953 to 450 in 2000. Current estimates put the number of urban centres at more than 840 as all the 36 state capitals and headquarters of the 774 local government areas have now been designated as urban centers by the government.
Prof. Emmanuel Olukayode Oladipo
If well planned and managed, cities and towns can engender economic and social progress, promotion of literacy and education, improvement of the general state of health and economic well-being, greater access to social services, and cultural, political and religious participation. However, if cities and towns are not properly managed, they may generate major environmental problems that could impact negatively on economic growth and sustainable national development. Unfortunately, the latter appears to be the situation in Nigeria.
Most of the urban settlements in the country are in a state of urban squalor and over-crowdedness characterised by decrepit structures, poor sanitary conditions, over-crowding, and under-provision of amenities and general deterioration of the urban environment. There is a huge unmet urban housing need leading to the emergence of numerous slums and squatter settlements.
Urbanisation has driven the conversion of agricultural land use to residential, industrial and other forms of land uses thus posing a challenge to food security. Furthermore, urbanisation leads to loss of environmentally sensitive land and amenity value, in addition to the fact that the built environment is a major consumer of natural resources such as timber, granite, sand and cement among others. Paving of roads, houses, commercial and industrial estates and de-vegetation especially trees traditionally referred to as the “lungs of the city” because of the ecological services they render, have been destroyed in most cities and towns. Consequently, there has been an increase in run-off from rain causing flooding and erosion in and around major urban centers apart from reduction in biodiversity. Informal sector activities which provide employment for most Nigerians contribute immensely to pollution, illegal construction and environmental degradation.
The situation may be further compounded by the impact of climate change, as the convergence of rapid urbanisation and climate change would be dangerous to our sustainable development. Increased temperature, sea level rise and extreme weather events are three dominant direct effects of global climate change on urban settlements/cities. Some of the key indirect effects of global climate change on our settlements may include reduced productivity of land, reduced access to water, and reduced air quality. In extreme cases, climate change could be an additional stress on urban settlements that already suffer from some combination of poorly managed growth, pervasive inequity, jurisdictional fragmentation, corruption, fiscal stress, and aging or inadequate infrastructure to trigger disruptive events and even political instability.
Climate change is likely to exacerbate existing health risks in cities and to create new ones. Specific impacts may include:
Direct physical injuries and deaths from extreme weather events such as storm surges, intense rainfall that leads to flooding and storms that damage trees and overhead structures and produce dangerous transport conditions;
Illnesses resulting from the aftermath of extreme weather events that destroy housing, disrupt access to clean water and food, and increase exposure to biological and chemical contaminants;
Water-borne diseases following extended or intense periods of rainfall, ground saturation and floods, and saline intrusion due to sea level rise; all of which compound existing deficiencies in local water services;
Food-borne diseases resulting from bacterial growth in foods exposed to higher temperatures;
Illnesses and deaths from an expanded range of vector-borne infectious diseases;
Respiratory illnesses due to worsening air quality related to changes in temperature;
Morbidity and mortality, especially among the elderly, small children, and people whose health is already compromised, as a result of stress from hotter and longer heat waves.
Climate change constitutes an additional problem to the sustainable development of human settlements in Nigeria. It will heighten the vulnerability of poor and marginalized groups in informal settlements who are among the most exposed in urban settlements to disaster risk. In all situations, the urban poor are specially vulnerability to the impacts of climate change. Their vulnerability springs from the informal settlements in which they live. In particular, their unique vulnerability is due to (i) ineffective or non-existent planning, and underinvestment in infrastructure, (ii) low quality housing with poor disaster resistance, and (iii) low income and insufficient resources.
The challenges associated with the rapid pace of urbanisation will complicate responses to climate change. However, urbanisation could also offer many opportunities to develop cohesive responses in both mitigation and adaptation strategies to deal with climate change. The populations, enterprises and authorities of urban centres will be fundamental players in developing these strategies. In this way, climate change itself will offer opportunities, or it will force cities and humanity, in general, to improve global, national and urban governance to foster the realisation of human dignity, economic and social justice, as well as sustainable development.
Living and coping with uncertain impacts of climate change is no longer a choice; it is imperative. Nigeria needs to address the climate change adaptation of its settlements to ensure that its economic development can continue without disruption or setbacks, and investment in poverty reduction, foods and water security and public health will not be undone. An enabling environment for climate resilient and healthy human settlement must be created and mainstreamed into the development process of the country. This requires that:
All stakeholders, including civil society organisations, must be mobilised for climate change adaptation of settlements;
National planning must be improved to include climate change considerations to reduce its impacts. This will include developing and using climate-resilient building constructions methods and expertise in human settlement development;
Ensure adequate quality and quantity of water for settlements;
Combat climate change-related health concerns in settlements, including involving health professionals in physical planning for climate-resilient settlements; and
Increase awareness on vulnerabilities and adaptation of settlements through timely gathering, analysing and disseminating of real-time information, among others.
In the long run, creating climate resilient and healthy urban and rural settlements will require collective action that blends the approaches of disaster risk reduction together with the principles of environmentally and socially sustainable development. In adaptation terms, Nigeria needs to undertake the following actions towards making its settlements more climate-resilient:
Hardening of infrastructure to make it more resilient to extreme weather;
Building seawalls to reduce the impact of rising seas and extreme weather;
Improving housing quality to make it more resistant to storm events;
Land filling to raise elevations for new development;
Relocation to alternative settlement areas;
Investment in cooling technologies to improve comfort as urban heat island effects take hold;
Disaster planning to enable more effective evacuation based on improved early warning systems for storm events;
Public health measures to address changes in disease vectors;
Facilitating settlement of new urban migrants in more appropriate parts of the city and use of proper designs in new construction;
Improved enforcement of critical building and land use regulations.
The country will also need to improve its capacity in the following areas so as to be able to protect its urban poor, reduce their vulnerability to the impacts of climate change and make settlements more healthy and resilient, as it is being done in other countries, through but not limited to:
Improving the legal environment for land use planning, public acquisition of land, and regulatory systems for development controls;
Setting up systems to map and develop the databases to identify and delineate settlements according to threat level from climate change impacts;
Establishing low-cost settlement schemes as an alternative to further growth or densification of current settlements in highly vulnerable areas;
Implementing community-based programmes to engage local residents on the longer term issues associated with adapting to global climate change;
Research and promotion of alternative building and infrastructure designs and materials;
Establishing emergency response systems for storm events;
Information-sharing networks for cities facing similar adaptation challenges in the years ahead; and
Developing and implementing pilot programs to create incentives for relocation of unsustainable settlements through market forces.
Enabling climate-resilient settlements in Nigeria will require a future proofing approach that will consider the growth dynamics of the urban and rural settlements in parallel with the range of potential risks which may impact its future development. The key intervention will be to support major settlements in the country to develop Action Plans which will chart a clear way forward, via the development of policies and other interventions that will help them to respond to climate hazards and promote a transition to a low carbon economy while reducing poverty and catalysing economic development through enhanced locally owned policy processes.
Integration of climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction and management in urban planning produces synergies that can enhance urban resilience. Good urban and multilevel governance is a key to building resilience, particularly in urban centres. Sustained capacity development (individual and institutional) of the urban sector (as well as efficient financing) is crucial for building climate-resilient cities.
The complex biophysical and socio-economic dynamics that underpin urban vulnerability requires that much in-depth research be done to fill significant knowledge gaps that exist in our understanding of the dynamic relationships between climate change and urban dynamics to ensure that future climate proofing of our urban settlements will be sustainable. Emphasis should be on improving governance and making smart investments in the urban sector, taking into account the realities of the changing climate. Significant efforts towards promoting climate smart urban development could include (i) climate sensitive and effective urban planning and governance mechanisms; (ii) proactive relief plans, early warning systems, adaptation measures; (iii) enforcement of zoning laws; (iv) proper risk mapping to help avoid informal settlements in risk-prone areas; (v) flood vulnerability assessment maps; and (vi) support states and local government in disaster risk reduction and management planning.
Living and coping with uncertain impacts of climate change is imperative. Nigeria needs to address climate change adaptation for its settlements to ensure that its socio-economic development can continue without climate change-induced disruption or shocks and investments in poverty reduction, food, water, security, shelter and public health will not be undone.
(People who are interested in additional technical details can read the following reports: (i) FGoN (Federal Government of Nigeria), 2012: Nigeria’s Path to Sustainable Development Through Green Economy. National Report to Rio+20 Summit; (ii) New York City, 2013: A Stronger More Resilient New York; & (iii) UN-Habitat (United Nations Human Settlements Programme) 2011: Cities and Climate change: Global Report on Human Settlements. Earthscan)
By Prof. Emmanuel Oladipo (Climate Change Specialist and Adjunct Professor, Department of Geography, University of Lagos, Nigeria. Email: olukayode_oladipo@yahoo.co.uk)
The new drought-tolerant maize trait, MON 87460, has been approved by the Executive Council of the GMO Act for conditional general release in the Republic of South Africa. This trait will be sold under the brand name, “DroughtGard.”
Kobus Steenekamp. Photo credit: www.agrieco.net
“The approval for general release is a significant step in bringing this valuable technology to all farmers in South Africa,” said Kobus Steenekamp, Managing Director for Monsanto in South Africa. “The approval provides access to another tool that can help farmers to sustainably manage their risk on farm. This will now allow Monsanto to proceed to the next stage of more extensive testing with DroughtGard under commercial circumstances, and to stack it with other existing traits. The next few seasons will provide an important opportunity to do extensive testing and demonstrations to help farmers learn how this can become part of their farming system and help minimise the risk of drought.”
The DroughtGard trait is designed to help the maize plant use less water when drought stress occurs, creating the opportunity to conserve soil moisture and help minimise yield loss under drought conditions. Drought or water stress, is one of the major factors that can impact on yields in South Africa. There are no simple solutions to ensure crop survival and yield in a drought. It takes a systems based approach using all the tools available to help minimise drought damage. Farmers must think about a system that incorporates best agronomic practices together with using the best adapted varieties suited for their farm. The new drought trait alone cannot guarantee success, but farmers can use it as another tool in their systems-based approach to help give their maize crop the best chance to survive and thrive in dry climates prone to drought.
It is anticipated, if progress stays on track, that farmers in South Africa will be able to buy and plant hybrids combining the new drought tolerant trait with existing insect-protection and weed control traits, within a few years pending final regulatory approvals for the stacked hybrids.
This application for general release of the MON 87460 trait was made by Monsanto, but Monsanto would also like to acknowledge the contribution of its public sector partners, particularly the Agricultural Research Council of South Africa, in testing the performance of MON87460 under the Water Efficient Maize for Africa (WEMA) Project. The WEMA project is a humanitarian project led by the African Agricultural Technology Foundation that aims to develop and deploy improved maize hybrids to benefit smallholder farmers in South Africa and other partner countries.
“Initial results from our regulatory trials are encouraging and we believe that DroughtGard hybrids will in future become an important tool for farmers to help mitigate yield loss caused by drought stress. This trait is the latest example of DEKALB bringing leading innovations to farmers,” according to Steenekamp.
According to Magda du Toit, the Monsanto South Africa spokesperson, the organisation is committed to bringing a broad range of solutions to help nourish our growing world.
“We produce seeds for fruits, vegetables and key crops – such as corn, soybeans, and cotton – that help farmers have better harvests while using water and other important resources more efficiently. We work to find sustainable solutions for soil health, help farmers use data to improve farming practices and conserve natural resources, and provide crop protection products to minimise damage from pests and disease. Through programmes and partnerships, we collaborate with farmers, researchers, nonprofit organisations, universities and others to help tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges,” du Toit stated.
