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Lagos calls for precautionary measures against cholera outbreak

Michael Simire
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Lagos calls for precautionary measures against cholera outbreak

Lagos State Government has issued a call for heightened vigilance and the adoption of precautionary measures to prevent the spread of a potential cholera outbreak in the state.

Prof Akin Abayomi
Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof Akin Abayomi

The call follows an excess of severe gastroenteritis cases reported in Lagos in the last 48 hours.

Speaking on the surveillance reports reaching his desk in the Ministry of Health, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, disclosed that cases of severe gastroenteritis have been reported in communities around Eti Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu and Kosofe LGA, resulting in about 60 hospital admissions and sadly five deaths have been recorded mainly from patients presenting late with extreme dehydration.

“We have activated a statewide heightened surveillance and response. The Ministry of Health Directorate of Environmental Health and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) have been alerted to investigate a possible water contamination source in the Lekki Victoria Island axis. We suspect a possible cholera outbreak; however, samples have been taken for confirmation. As of April 28, 2024, Nigeria reported 815 suspected cholera cases and 14 deaths across 25 states,” he said in a statement.

The Commissioner noted that, following recent rains, Lagos State has seen a notable increase in cases of severe vomiting and watery stools, adding that urban slums and crowded areas with poor sanitation are particularly at risk.

Prof. Akin Abayomi explained that cholera is a highly contagious disease that causes severe diarrhea and can be life-threatening, adding that it poses a significant health burden in areas with poor water treatment and sanitation, and could impact Lagos State.

“Cholera spreads through direct transmission by eating or drinking contaminated food or water, and indirect transmission due to poor sanitation and lack of handwashing. Symptoms of cholera include severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, rapid dehydration, muscle cramps, fever and sometimes collapse,” he said.

According to him, treatment options for cholera include rehydration using Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) for mild to moderate dehydration. Intravenous Fluids is used for severely dehydrated patients given only in medical facilities and supervised by medical personnel.

“To prevent cholera, citizens are urged to ensure safe drinking water by boiling, chlorinating, or using bottled water, and avoiding ice products made from untreated water. Maintaining proper sanitation by using toilets, safely disposing of feces, and avoiding open defecation is crucial.

“Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands with soap and clean water regularly, especially before eating, preparing food, and after using the toilet, is essential and following food safety guidelines,” the Commissioner advised.

He enjoined citizens to rely on the Lagos State Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and accredited local health facilities for guidance, advice, and updates on prevention, treatment, and management. He added that suspected cases can be reported via the following emergency hotlines: 08023169485, 08137412348, or by using helplines 767 or 112.

While emphasising the importance of maintaining high standards of hygiene and taking proactive measures to prevent cholera outbreaks, Professor Abayomi promised to keep the public informed and restated the commitment of the Government of Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu to ensuring the health and well-being of its citizens.

“We urge everyone to adopt these preventive measures and report any suspected cases promptly to safeguard our communities,” he stated.

Experts urge UK political leaders to pledge ambitious action on climate change

Michael Simire
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Experts urge UK political leaders to pledge ambitious action on climate change

Over 400 experts on climate change have published an open letter to the leaders of the UK’s political parties, calling for them to adopt an ambitious programme on climate change if they win the General Election on July 4, 2024.

Bob Ward
Bob Ward, Policy and Communications Director at the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment at the London School of Economics and Political Science

The letter from 408 staff at research institutions across the UK states: “We call on you to pledge to an ambitious programme of climate policies that accelerate action, in the UK and across the world, both to cut greenhouse gas emissions and to increase resilience to those impacts of climate change that cannot now be avoided. Without such a programme, the UK will be shirking its international responsibilities and will be losing the opportunity to promote prosperity and peace in the UK and around the globe.”

It concludes: “Without such a pledge, we do not believe that your Party deserves support in the forthcoming General Election.”

The signatories to the letter include 215 current and emeritus professors, and 36 Fellows of the national academies (FRS, FREng, FBA, FMedSci). The vast majority of those signing are eligible to vote in the General Election.

The letter lists the following five actions that would need to be included in a more ambitious programme of climate action:

  • Publish and implement a credible and legal strategy for ending the UK’s contribution to climate change by meeting the UK’s statutory Carbon Budgets and its target of net zero emissions of greenhouse gases by 2050.
  • Accelerate action across all sectors and all parts of the UK to adapt and become more resilient to those impacts of climate change that cannot now be avoided, in line with UK Climate Change Risk Assessments.
  • Respect and act on all the advice of the expert independent Climate Change Committee, including its warning in its most recent Progress Report that “the UK will continue to need some oil and gas until it reaches Net Zero, but this does not in itself justify the development of new North Sea fields”.
  • Lead by example internationally on climate change, including through the implementation of the decision at COP28 in Dubai in December 2023, and the commitment to “transitioning away from fossil fuels in energy systems, in a just, orderly and equitable manner, accelerating action in this critical decade, so as to achieve net zero by 2050 in keeping with the science”.
  • Increase public and private funding and support for climate change mitigation and adaptation in developing countries.

The letter warns: “It is very clear that a failure to tackle climate change with sufficient urgency and scale is making the UK and the rest of the world more dangerous and insecure. The UK is experiencing growing damage and harm to lives and livelihoods from climate change impacts, such as increases in the frequency and intensity of many extreme weather events and rising sea levels.”

It also states: “The growing impacts of climate change in other parts of the world are endangering supply chains for food and other goods and services to the UK. They are also adding to political instability and forcing many people to migrate away from places that are worst affected. The UK cannot completely insulate itself from the impacts of climate change in other parts of the world. It is in the UK’s self-interest for other countries to reach net zero emissions as soon as possible.”

The joint letter was organised by Professor Emily Shuckburgh, Director of Cambridge Zero at the University of Cambridge, and Bob Ward, Policy and Communications Director at the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

Mr Ward said: “This is a non-partisan letter from experts at British institutions who have published at least one paper on climate change. It sends a load and clear message about the need for greater climate ambition from the next government. Climate change has largely been ignored by Party Leaders so far in this election campaign, demonstrating that they have failed to grasp just how much it is affecting lives and livelihoods in the UK.

“It is in the UK’s own interests to accelerate the transition to a sustainable, inclusive and resilient economy, to reduce our dependence on expensive and insecure fossil fuels, to protect our supplies of food and other goods and services against more extreme weather, and to stop growing climate change impacts from increasing the flow of migrants and refugees from affected countries.”

NNPC, Golar LNG sign agreement on Floating LNG project

Michael Simire
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NNPC, Golar LNG sign agreement on Floating LNG project

In furtherance of its commitment to monetise Nigeria’s vast natural gas resources, the NNPC Limited has executed a Project Development Agreement (PDA) with Golar LNG for the deployment of a Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) offshore Niger Delta, Nigeria.

NNPC
L-R: NNPC Ltd’s Executive Vice President, Upstream, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan; Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Umar Ajiya; Executive Vice President, Gas, Power & New Energy, Mr. Olalekan Ogunleye; CEO Golar LNG Ltd, Karl Fredrik Staubo (CEO); and two other officials from Golar LNG, during the signing ceremony of the Project Development Agreement (PDA) between the NNPC Ltd and Golar LNG Ltd for the deployment of a Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) offshore Niger Delta, Nigeria, on Monday

The signing ceremony, which took place on Monday, June 10, 2024, was attended from the NNPC Limited side by the Chief Financial Officer, Umar Ajiya; Executive Vice President, Gas Power & New Energy, Olalekan Ogunleye; and Executive Vice President, Upstream, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, while the Golar LNG team was led by Karl Fredrik Staubo (CEO).

The PDA is another major milestone achievement towards ensuring gas commercialisation through deployment of an FLNG Facility in Nigeria, which is in line with Mr. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s resolve to rapidly commercialise Nigeria’s gas assets for the economic prosperity of the nation.

The agreement aims to monetise vast proven gas reserves from shallow water resources offshore Nigeria. The PDA also outlines the monetisation plan that will utilise approximately 400-500mmscf/d and produce LNG, LPG and Condensate.

The Partners, NNPC Limited and Golar LNG have both expressed their commitment to achieve Final Investment Decision (FID) before end of Q4, 2024 and first gas by 2027.

Golar LNG Limited is a renowned independent owner and operator of LNG infrastructure, including carriers, floating storage and regasification units (FSRUs), and floating liquefaction (FLNG) vessels.

BAT Nigeria sets new standards for environmental stewardship through water recycling

Michael Simire
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BAT Nigeria sets new standards for environmental stewardship through water recycling

Demonstrating commendable water stewardship, BAT Nigeria has placed an emphasis on maximum recycling and zero leakage with the operation of a Wastewater Treatment Plant with a 30,000 m3 storage capacity which enables recycling and reusing of all effluent wastewater.

Yarub Al-Bahran
Yarub Al-Bahrani, Managing Director, BAT West & Central Africa

Yarub Al-Bahrani, Managing Director, BAT West & Central Africa, who made this known in a statement made available to EnviroNews on June 11, 2024, further stated that, in 2023, the company recycled up to 17,388 m3 of water.

According to him, the facility is an on-site Potable Water Treatment Facility which guarantees the provision of clean, potable water for its operations which further solidified its commitment to water stewardship.

He opined: “BAT Nigeria incorporates water sensor taps in washrooms to minimise unnecessary water usage. The treated wastewater is not just recycled but also reused for sanitation and irrigation purposes, demonstrating a commitment to a circular water economy.

“This dedication to water conservation is further validated by its certification under the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS), a globally recognised benchmark for responsible water management. Water stewardship efforts align with the National Water Resources Policy established by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources in 2016.

“This policy encourages private sector participation in developing sustainable and equitable water management solutions to meet growing demands. By aligning with these objectives, the company contributes to ensuring sufficient water availability for current and future users while prioritising water quality conservation and environmental protection.

“BAT Nigeria is committed to environmental sustainability, and we are proud of our achievements in water stewardship. Our wastewater treatment plant and use of sensor taps are just some of the ways we are minimising our water usage and impact on the environment. We believe that businesses can be profitable and sustainable, and we are committed to setting a new standard for environmental stewardship in our industry.

“British American Tobacco Nigeria’s sustainability journey is a testament to its unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and corporate governance. By championing decarbonisation, energy efficiency, water stewardship, and waste management best practices, BAT Nigeria is not only setting the standard for sustainability within its industry but also inspiring positive change on a global scale.

“As the world grapples with pressing environmental challenges, BAT Nigeria stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that sustainability and profitability can indeed coexist harmoniously,” he stressed.

With a commitment to the principles of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), BAT Nigeria sustainability agenda is built upon four key pillars: reducing the health impacts of the business, excellence in environmental management, delivering positive social impacts and maintaining robust corporate governance.

By Ajibola Adedoye

AGIS 2024 set to revolutionise Africa’s gas industry through innovation, collaboration

Michael Simire
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AGIS 2024 set to revolutionise Africa’s gas industry through innovation, collaboration

The inaugural Africa Gas Innovation Summit (AGIS 2024), an event aimed at reshaping the future of Africa’s gas industry, will hold from June 13 to 14, 2024, at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja. With the theme “Igniting the Future: Driving Sustainability in Africa’s Energy Landscape through Gas Technology and Innovation,” the summit promises to be a pivotal moment for the industry.

Ekperikpe Ekpo
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo

Presented by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Nigeria Council in collaboration with key partners such as the Nigerian Gas Association (NGA), Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), Association of Energy Correspondents of Nigeria (NAEC), Abuja Chamber of Commerce & Industry Nigeria, African Petroleum Producers Organisation (APPO), Decade of Gas, Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), and African Energy Chamber, among others, AGIS 2024 will be a landmark occasion.

“AGIS 2024 represents a unique opportunity to drive sustainability and innovation within our energy landscape. By bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, we aim to foster a collaborative environment where cutting-edge research and technological advancements can thrive,” said Salahuddeen Tahir, Chairman, Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), Nigeria Council.

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, will be the Special Guest of Honour while the chief host is Olalekan Ogunleye, Executive Vice President, New Energies, Gas & Power, NNPC Limited. Other confirmed guests and speakers include Mele Kolo Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer, NNPC Limited; Farouk Ahmed, Authority Chief Executive, Nigeria Midstream & Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA); Emeka Ene, Chief Executive Officer, Oilda Energy; Ed Ubong, Director, Decade of Gas Secretariat; and Gbite Falade, Chief Executive Officer, Aradel Holdings, among others.

The theme of the summit underscores the commitment to advancing sustainable energy practices through innovative gas technologies and highlights the crucial role of gas in Africa’s energy transition.

According to Tahir, “our commitment is to not only advance sustainable energy practices but also to unlock the immense potential of gas as a key driver in Africa’s energy transition.”

AGIS 2024 is primed to be a catalyst for revolutionising Africa’s gas sector through cutting-edge research and technological breakthroughs. With a focus on promoting innovation, shaping policy frameworks, unlocking financing avenues, nurturing capacity building, and cultivating entrepreneurship, this summit aims to ignite the future and drive sustainability in Africa’s energy landscape.

The summit will feature a detailed technical agenda with a variety of sub-topics designed to address the most pressing issues and opportunities in the gas sector. Attendees will have the chance to engage with industry leaders, policymakers, financiers, and entrepreneurs, fostering a collaborative environment for knowledge sharing and networking.

Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road: Beyond financial cost, environmental and human trade offs

Michael Simire
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Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road: Beyond financial cost, environmental and human trade offs

The intended Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project has become well-known to many generating diverse reactions from Nigerians. Initiated since 2005 during the Olusegun Obasanjo’s regime, on completion this project will link Lagos to Cross River, traversing through six other coastal states: Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom, before reaching its final destination in Cross River.

Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road
Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road

In April 2023, construction began on the 700 km Lagos-Calabar coastal road. This project is planned to be a dual carriageway with five lanes on each side, and a train track in the middle. It is set to become one of Nigeria’s most expensive road projects. However, the initiation of this project without a fully approved Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) would be too significant an oversight for an infrastructure development of this magnitude. It is a clear case of putting the cart before the horse.

An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a tool used to evaluate the significant effects of a project or development proposal on the environment. EIAs ensure that project decision-makers consider the potential environmental impacts as early as possible, aiming to avoid, reduce, or mitigate those effects.

At a recent stakeholder meeting where compensation for the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project was raised. Laila Johnson Salami, a correspondent from Arise News, inquired of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, about the project’s environmental impact assessment (EIA).

Unfortunately, the Minister bluffed over the question and dismissively replied, “Sister, I was raised in the village, me I nur dey hear fo-ne (a slang for phonetics).” The journalist further asked if the minister could share the final approval for the project with the media, but he did not give a definitive answer. “Everything in order,” Umahi replied.

Great things have been said about this massive project, such as its potential to stimulate economic growth, facilitate trade, and enhance regional integration by improving connectivity and reducing travel times between key economic zones. However, little consideration has been given to the environmental impact this project will have on the environment.

Beyond the environmental potential sacrilege, I gathered first-hand information about the human and economic implication from some construction actors, residents who will be affected by the project, fishing associations and small business owners – including a young man who recently lost his livelihood due to the demolition of businesses and properties along the shoreline.

Disruption of marine ecosystem

The road project spans across diverse and sensitive ecological zones, where the impacts can range from habitat destruction and biodiversity loss to alterations in hydrological patterns and increased pollution. The project’s activities, such as land reclamation, would have a profound environmental impact, resulting in the loss of various flora and fauna. This could lead to irreversible damage to already critically threatened habitats and ecosystems. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the environmental impacts before proceeding further.

Impact on water quality

The construction and operation of the coastal road could disrupt the natural flow of water and sediment along the coast, potentially leading to changes in water quality, increased erosion, and sedimentation. Given the rapid climate change occurring worldwide and the rising sea levels threatening Lagos’ already vulnerable infrastructure, the dredging activities on the seashore to reclaim land portions risk exacerbating the city’s vulnerability to climate change and contributing to greater environmental damage.

Damage to coastal biodiversity

Furthermore, the construction activities and land refilling efforts damage fragile coastal ecosystems. There are significant concerns that coral reefs and essential fish spawning sites may be destroyed, leading to disruptions in marine food chains. These ecological disruptions underscore the importance of thoroughly assessing and mitigating the environmental impacts of the road project to protect these critical ecosystems and maintain environmental balance.

Destruction of ancestral heritage

The rerouting of the coastal highway from its original Right of Way to some residential areas of various communities is another significant issue that needs to be highlighted. Recently, the leaders of the Okun-Ajah community took action to draw the attention of stakeholders to the circumstances surrounding this change. “The rerouting of the original Right of Way will result in the demolition of over 2,000 houses, including ancestral homes and the palace of our Oba,” the community leaders emphasised.

The cultural and historical significance of the homes and communities along the shoreline should be considered. A complete disappearance of these communities would not only displace residents but also erase a vital part of their heritage. This situation underscores the need for stakeholders to carefully consider the social and cultural implications of infrastructure projects.

Impact on Fishing Communities

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project would have negative effects on Ise community in Ibeju-Lekki, Akodo Community, Orimedu Communities to mention are few along the Lagos shoreline as well as the livelihood of people in these communities who majorly are fishermen and fisherwomen and even farmers. Changes in the environment, such as pollution and the destruction of natural habitats, can affect the availability and quality of fish, which in turn can impact the livelihoods of fishermen.

Additionally, the construction of roads may disrupt traditional fishing practices and access to fishing grounds. Therefore, while coastal roads can provide benefits in terms of improved access, it is important to consider and mitigate the potential negative impacts on fishermen and their livelihoods.

In conclusion, the Lagos-Calabar coastal road project is a controversial infrastructure initiative on many fronts: the N15 trillion ($11 billion) project cost, the substantial environmental risks, including the destruction of coastal habitats, disruption of marine ecosystems, and potential negative impacts on local communities which is a matter of significant concern.

As the project moves forward, do we embrace its potential such as improved connectivity and economic national growth and look away from other impacts? Can we collectively seek the possibility for stakeholders to carefully consider all pros and cons, potential benefits and associated risks? It is crucial for environmental monitoring and mitigation measures to be put in place to minimise the project’s impact on the environment.

Ultimately, the success of the Lagos-Calabar coastal road project will depend on careful planning, implementation, and ongoing monitoring.

By Mayowa Adebote

Wildfires threaten unique Brazil ecosystem

Michael Simire
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Wildfires threaten unique Brazil ecosystem

Firefighters are battling wildfires in Brazil’s Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland.

Pantanal
Aerial view of Pantanal, Brazil

The Pantanal is a natural region encompassing the world’s largest tropical wetland area, and the world’s largest flooded grasslands. It is located mostly within the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul, but it extends into Mato Grosso and portions of Bolivia and Paraguay. It is home to jaguars, giant anteaters, and giant river otters.

Close to 32,000 hectares have already been destroyed by the fires in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, local media report.

Climate experts say this year’s wildfire season has started earlier and is more intense than in previous years.

Firefighters said their efforts to extinguish the flames were being hampered by high winds over the weekend.

The region has also seen less rain than in other years, which has made it easier for the fires to spread.

The number of fires from the start of the year up to 9 June has been 935% higher than in the same period last year, according to figures from Brazil’s National Institute for Space Research (INPE).

The rise is particularly worrying as the high season for wildfires is not due to start until July.

Mato Grosso, do Sul state authorities declared “an environmental state of emergency” in April, saying low levels of rainfall were creating ideal conditions for wildfires.

The number of fires so far in 2024 has been the highest since 2020, which was the worst year on record in terms of Pantanal fires.

In that year, about 30% of the Pantanal was consumed by fire.

The difference in the number of fire outbreaks so far this year compared to last year is already “staggering”.

Between January 1 and June 9, 2023, 127 fires had been reported. In the same period this year, that number was 1,315.

Vinicius Silgueiro from local NGO Instituto Centro da Vida said that “what is most worrying is that even in the rainy season, we had this increase in fires.”

Mr Silgueiro warned that “the situation would probably deteriorate further at the peak of the dry season in August and September.”

Last week, Brazil’s federal government announced it would work together with the state governments of Mato Grosso do Sul and Amazonia to combat wildfires.

Environment Minister, Marina da Silva, said it was key to respond to fires more quickly while also doing more to prevent them from breaking out in the first place.

Nigeria, US to collaborate on green industrial agenda

Michael Simire
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Nigeria, US to collaborate on green industrial agenda

Nigeria is planning to utilise significant climate financing in partnership with the US to advance the country’s green industrial agenda in the coming years.

Ajuri Ngelale
Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action (SPEC), Ajuri Ngelale, in a meeting with the U.S. Head of Delegation to the United Nations Climate Conference and Principal Deputy Special Envoy for Climate, Sue Biniaz, in Bonn

The Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action (SPEC), Ajuri Ngelale, made this known during his meeting with the U.S. Head of Delegation to the United Nations Climate Conference and Principal Deputy Special Envoy for Climate, Sue Biniaz, in Bonn, Germany.

Ngelale said the nation’s mutual ties with the United States of America will extend into Nigeria’s realisable ambition to become a green industrial powerhouse over the next 10 years.

“I certainly cherished the quality and productive time spent today with the U.S. Head of Delegation to the United Nations Climate Conference and Principal Deputy Special Envoy for Climate, Ms. Sue Biniaz, in Bonn, Germany, on Sunday afternoon.

“We shared views concerning tangible next steps to be taken towards leveraging large-scale climate financing instruments to drive Nigeria’s green industrial agenda in the years ahead.

“The ties of mutually fruitful cooperation between the United States of America and the Federal Republic of Nigeria will extend deeply into Nigeria’s realisable ambition to become a green industrial powerhouse over the next 10 years.”

SPEC acknowledged that more work is needed to establish new mechanisms for the transparent and innovative allocation of resources to achieve the set goals of de-risked investment capital from around the world.

“We have much work to do in the form of putting in place new mechanisms to achieve a truly transparent and innovative application of available resources to meet our objective of attracting new and de-risked investment capital from around the world,” he added.

Ngelale expressed confidence in Nigeria’s Climate Action team towards achieving the mandate of becoming a green industrial powerhouse saying the group will attain its mandate.

“I am confident that we have the team to deliver on this for the country. One step at a time.”

The U.S. Principal Deputy Special Envoy for Climate was joined in the meeting by Trigg Talley, the Managing Director for Negotiations and Director for the U.S. State Department’s Office of Global Change.

Recall that the Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu, on Sunday directed Special Envoy on Climate Action, Ajuri Ngelale, to serve as Nigeria’s Chief diplomat and lead representative on all climate-related engagements and negotiations while also supervising the Energy Transition Office.

SPEC is the lead negotiator on climate-related matters on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, reporting directly to the President.

The envoy is responsible for overseeing all interactions between the Secretariat of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) and the NCCC Supervising Council, chaired by the President.

The Special Presidential Envoy on Climate, Ajuri Ngelale, will serve as the coordinator of all climate action-related activities. His mandate is to directly engage with other nations, international organisations, and non-governmental entities to build coalitions and advance global climate goals while keeping Nigeria’s national interest in mind.

International Lynx Day: Celebrating the allure of the lynx

Michael Simire
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International Lynx Day: Celebrating the allure of the lynx

Every year on June 11, wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists around the globe come together to celebrate International Lynx Day. This particular day is dedicated to raising awareness about the elusive and majestic lynx, a wild cat species known for its distinctive tufted ears, piercing eyes, and solitary nature. International Lynx Day aims to educate the public about the importance of protecting these remarkable creatures and their natural habitats.

Lynx
The lynx

Lynxes belong to the medium-sized cat family, Felidae. They are the biggest wild cats found in Europe but, depending on the species, can be slightly smaller than a bobcat. Unlike most cats, lynxes have a short, stubby tail that looks almost bobbed, giving them a distinctive silhouette. Their most striking feature, however, is the presence of black tufts adorning the tips of their pointed ears. These tufts enhance their hearing, allowing them to pinpoint even the faintest sound of prey.

There are four species of lynx: the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), the Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis), the Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus), and the bobcat (Lynx rufus). Each species has unique characteristics and habitats, but they share common traits that make them fascinating subjects of study and admiration.

Species and Distribution

  1. Eurasian Lynx: The largest lynx species, the Eurasian lynx can be found in the forests of Europe, Russia, and Central Asia. These cats have a broad range, inhabiting diverse environments from the dense boreal forests of Siberia to the mountainous regions of the Alps and the Carpathians.
  2. Canada Lynx: Native to North America, the Canada lynx primarily resides in the boreal forests of Canada and Alaska. These cats are well-adapted to cold climates, with thick fur and large, snowshoe-like paws that help them navigate deep snow.
  3. Iberian Lynx: One of the most endangered wild cats in the world, the Iberian lynx is found in the scrub forests and rocky areas of southwestern Spain and Portugal. Intensive conservation efforts have been made to save this species from extinction, leading to a gradual increase in their population.
  4. Bobcat: The most adaptable of the lynx species, the bobcat can be found throughout North America, from southern Canada to northern Mexico. Bobcats inhabit various environments, including forests, swamps, deserts, and even suburban areas.

One of the most notable features of lynxes is their large paws, which are covered in thick fur. These paws act like snowshoes, distributing their weight and allowing them to move efficiently across snowy landscapes. This adaptation is particularly evident in the Canada lynx, which relies heavily on its ability to traverse deep snow to hunt its primary prey, the snowshoe hare.

Regardless of the species, all lynxes share some common characteristics. They are solitary creatures, preferring to live and hunt alone except during breeding season. Their keen eyesight and exceptional hearing make them skilled predators, adept at stalking and pouncing on unsuspecting prey. Their primary food source consists of snowshoe hares, but they’ll also hunt rabbits, rodents, small birds, and even fish.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of lynx species varies. The Eurasian lynx is listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), but some local populations are endangered due to habitat loss and hunting. The Canada lynx is also classified as “Least Concern,” although it faces threats from habitat fragmentation and climate change.

Once on the brink of extinction, the Iberian lynx is now listed as “Endangered.” Intensive conservation efforts, including captive breeding and habitat restoration, have helped increase its population from fewer than 100 individuals in the early 2000s to over 400 today. Despite this progress, the Iberian lynx remains one of the most threatened wild cats in the world.

Bobcats are the most abundant and widespread lynx species, classified as “Least Concern.” Their adaptability to various environments has allowed them to thrive, even in areas heavily influenced by human activity.

A Call to Action

As we celebrate International Lynx Day, let us remember that the future of these magnificent creatures lies in our hands. The lynx, with its silent grace and striking presence, symbolises the wild beauty of our planet. Each of us has a role in ensuring their survival, from supporting conservation initiatives to spreading awareness about their plight. By protecting the lynx, we are safeguarding the delicate web of life that sustains us all.

Let us be the voice for these silent hunters, advocating for a world where they can roam free and wild. Together, we can make a difference and leave a legacy of hope and conservation for generations to come.

By Assaf Levy, BioDB

G7 Leaders’ Summit: CSOs launch just energy transition principles framework

Michael Simire
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0
G7 Leaders’ Summit: CSOs launch just energy transition principles framework

On Monday, June 10, 2024, a coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) from South Africa, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Senegal presented the “Principles for a Fair Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP)” during a virtual press conference launch ahead of the G7 Summit proceedings starting on June 13.

G7 Leaders
G7 leaders gather for a group photo in Hiroshima on May 20, 2023

These guiding principles for global just transitions highlight the integral need for accountability, transparency, equity, and other principles in climate finance towards addressing the urgent climate crisis, from the perspective of the Global South communities and civil society in line to receive JETP finance.

The JETP deals announced in South Africa, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Senegal underscore the necessity for finance in combating the climate crisis. As discussions around COP29 in November begin to take shape, robust commitments to principled climate finance are deemed essential for the world’s climate response.

Despite finally meeting the $100 billion annual goal, developed countries are seemingly in favour of placing higher interest rates and restrictive conditions on their investments. This course of climate finance may ultimately hinder effective climate action in developing nations and increase their debt burden. Civil society voices urge G7 leaders and developed nations, as major polluters, to commit to creating a sustainable energy future through just climate finance deals.

Collectively developed by 350africa.org, 350.org Indonesia, Trend Asia, Nu Climate Movement, Enviro Vito, Good Governance Africa, Lumière Synergie Développement (LSD) and Action Solidaire International (ASI), through sharing knowledge and experiences, these Global JETP Principles call for climate justice and affirm the aspirations of CSOs in recipient countries for enduring climate solutions.

They aim to serve as an advocacy and capacity-building tool, bringing together civil society and grassroots communities to advocate for fair and ambitious climate finance that is responsive to the realities of developing countries.

JETPs recognise the need for resources to transform energy systems and support developing countries. Expensive access to finance traps these nations in debt, limiting climate investments and necessitating a reevaluation of climate finance delivery. Collaboration among CSOs in the global south is vital to challenge the top-down approach. Principles developed by recipient countries, facilitated by civil society, are essential for accountability and asserting local aspirations in the energy transition.

Alia Kajee, Public Finance Campaigner at 350.org, said: “Finance is not neutral; it can support transformative aspirations or perpetuate injustices under the guise of environmental progress. The current international financial system reveals significant power imbalances between developed and developing nations, which must be addressed to achieve just, people-centered climate action.”

Ndeye Fatou Sy, Programme Manager at Lumière Synergie Développement (LSD), said: “Finance ministers must prioritise funding mechanisms aligned with justice objectives to avoid undue strain on national economies, while ensuring greater transparency and accountability within JETPs. These partnerships, guided by principles ensuring efficacy and impact, are critical for driving effective climate action.”

Andreas Sieber, Associate Director of Policy and Campaigns at 350.org, said: “A principled approach to finance is vital for navigating the global climate finance landscape, ensuring equitable and effective solutions. Initiatives like JETP highlight the need for just transitions, but aligning them with national climate finance direction and unlocking public finance, particularly in the Global South, is crucial. It is crucial that G7 member states demonstrate willingness to deliver finance at COP29.”

Maureen Harris, Senior Advisor at International Rivers and coordinator of the Vietnam Climate Defenders Coalition, said: “In Vietnam, the government has committed to a just energy transition and signed up for a JETP, while at the same time imprisoning the country’s leading climate defenders. Targeted attacks on climate leaders and environmental organizations severely limit genuine opportunities for consultation with civil society, which are essential to any just transition. To meet the urgency of the climate crisis, energy transition financing must center principles of transparency, participation and accountability, towards truly just and sustainable solutions.”

Liangyi Chang, Asia Managing Director at 350.org, said: “In the scorching grip of the 2024 climate heat wave, Asia bears witness to the harsh reality of climate change. As temperatures soar and ecosystems strain, the urgency of transitioning to renewable energy becomes ever more apparent. Every climate leader from civil society shall be part of the Just Energy Transition Partnership from all governments, only together we can make it possible and to solve the climate disruption.”

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