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From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Nasarawa State Government, through the Ministry of Environment & Natural Resources Department of Climate Change, is spearheading a public awareness campaign to shed light on the harmful effects of charcoal production on human health and the environment.
in his welcome address, on Tuesday, recognizing the urgent need to address the escalating issue, representing the Permanente Secretary of the ministry, Mr Garba Muhammed is the Director of Mining, Mr Thomas Bashayi stressed that the government seeks to curb the indiscriminate felling of trees and raise awareness about the environmental hazards associated with charcoal production.
Mr Thomas during the first Day of the sensitization programme which was held at Lamba company, Kokona Local government council, Nassarawa state welcome all Stakeholders to the programme while explaining that Charcoal production has long been a prevalent practice in the state, with adverse consequences for both the populace and the environment.
In his sensitization message, Director, Forestry and wide life, Mr Napoleon Elias Gyobe said the excessive harvesting of trees for charcoal leads to deforestation, which disrupts local ecosystems and exacerbates climate change, adding that preserving forests is vital for maintaining biodiversity, conserving water resources, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
Furthermore, Elias said the production and combustion of charcoal release harmful pollutants and greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution and global warming, noting that the resulting smoke from charcoal poses a significant environmental hazard, aggravating the ongoing challenges associated with climate change.
As part of the campaign, Elias encourages citizens to explore alternative cooking fuels such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), biogas, and electric stoves. “These cleaner energy sources not only reduce harmful emissions but also offer economic benefits and alleviate health risks associated with indoor air pollution.”
He urges citizens to consider cleaner and more sustainable energy alternatives to reduce their carbon footprint and protect their health.
He expressed deep concern about the impact of charcoal production on the state’s environment and public health, emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing this pressing issue, stating, that the production of charcoal leads to irritation, eye defects and many other health challenges. “
“We cannot afford to overlook the severe consequences of charcoal production any longer. It is imperative that we adopt environmentally-friendly practices and embrace renewable energy sources to safeguard the well-being of our communities and the future of our planet.”
In their goodwill messages during the sensitization program, Community Leaders who actively participated expressed their happiness and appreciation for the timely event. Many of the attendees felt that the knowledge they gained during the program was invaluable and pledged to transfer this knowledge to their children and fellow countrymen.
The Leaders recognized the importance of understanding the impact of charcoal production on human health and the environment. They acknowledged that the event provided them with crucial information that they were previously unaware of.
“By learning about the harmful effects of charcoal production and the associated environmental hazards, I felt empowered to make informed decisions and take appropriate actions.”
They also commended the Nasarawa State Government for organizing such an essential event. They believed that the government’s initiative demonstrated a genuine commitment to addressing environmental issues and improving the well-being of the community.
Moreover, the attendees expressed their intention to share the knowledge they acquired with their children and fellow countrymen. They recognized the importance of raising awareness among their families and communities to collectively contribute to environmental conservation efforts.
