Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to collaborate with environmentalists, community leaders and other stakeholders to restore forest reserves in the state.
Obaseki made the call in commemoration of the World Environment Day, marked on June 5 each year, by the United Nations and its partners.
He said, “In commemoration of the World Environment Day, it is pertinent to reassure that my administration will continue to collaborate with environmentalists, community leaders, investors and other stakeholders, even as we implement policies which promote best practices in biodiversity, waste management and preservation of the state’s unique ecosystem.”
Obaseki described the theme for the 2021 celebration, ‘Reimagine. Recreate. Restore,’ as suitable, noting that it was necessary for stakeholders to work together in developing practical and innovative solutions to recreating and restoring nature in a way that will assist humans deal with rising infectious diseases such as coronavirus (COVID-19).”
He noted, “We have a robust plan in place to partner with investors in the green economy to regenerate the forest reserves in a sustainable manner. We are also working with waste managers and other stakeholders to implement policies and programmes on effective waste management.”
According to the United Nations, “Ecosystem loss is depriving the world of carbon sinks, like forests and peatlands, at a time humanity can least afford it. Global greenhouse gas emissions have grown for three consecutive years and the planet is one pace for potentially catastrophic climate change.
“The emergence of COVID-19 has also shown just how disastrous the consequences of ecosystem loss can be. By shrinking the area of natural habitat for animals, we have created ideal conditions for pathogens – including coronaviruses – to spread.”
