Building a culture of environmental sustainability in Nigeria

A sustainable environment is defined as an environment in which natural resources are judiciously and conscientiously used in a manner that meets current needs without compromising or jeopardising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

This involves maintaining ecological balance, reducing pollution, conserving biodiversity, and ensuring that development occurs in a way that is socially equitable and economically viable.

The most widely cited definition of sustainability comes from the Brundtland Report, officially known as “Our Common Future,” published by the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED). It defines sustainable development as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

With its vast landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and overwhelming population, Nigeria stands at a critical juncture in its development. Every day, the Nigerian environment faces a lot of pressure as hundreds of citizens engage in one form of economic activity or the other. With the growing economic activities comes the need to ensure the preservation of the environment and create a delicate balance to ensure a sustainable future for children yet unborn.

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In the Niger Delta region of the country, for instance, hundreds of communities and their inhabitants have continued to bear the brunt of decades of environmental pollution by international oil companies operating in the region. Vast farmlands have been polluted and degraded thus, depriving local farmers the opportunity to cultivate crops for their livelihoods. Riverine communities of Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers and Cross River, among others which depend on fishing as their major means of survival have been thrown into a life of squalor and abject poverty due to the pollution of their rivers by the oil companies.

The pollution of the rivers by the oil companies often leads to mass deaths of fish in the rivers. Besides the environmental degradation and pollution by international oil companies operating in the Niger Delta region, industrial activities in Lagos and other parts of the country have continued to negatively impact the environment.

Indiscriminate mining activities and deforestation across many parts of the country have continued to exacerbate environmental degradation and attendant negative impacts on the environment. Across many communities in the country, people engage in all manner of activities in the environment without caring about its sustainability.

From the foregoing, building a culture of environmental sustainability is not just an option; it is a necessity for Nigeria’s long-term prosperity and the overall well-being of its citizens.

As earlier pointed out, Nigeria faces numerous environmental challenges, including deforestation, pollution, desertification, and biodiversity loss. These issues are aggravated by rapid urbanisation, industrialisation and population growth.

The consequences of environmental degradation are severe, including reduced agricultural productivity, increased health problems, and exacerbated climate change impacts. If not addressed, these issues could undermine Nigeria’s economic progress and social stability.

There is a need for advocacy and awareness campaigns. The foundation of any sustainable culture by the citizens is education. Raising awareness about environmental issues and sustainability practices is crucial.  This can be achieved through integrating environmental education into school curricula at all levels – primary, secondary and tertiary institutions. Educating young Nigerians about the importance of preserving their natural resources will foster a generation that values and actively participates in environmental stewardship.

In the same vein, public awareness campaigns using various mass media channels are also essential. Also, traditional and interpersonal channels of communication can be adopted to ensure the effectiveness of such advocacy, especially in rural areas. These awareness campaigns should highlight the importance of sustainable practices and the tangible benefits they bring, such as cleaner air and water, improved health, and economic opportunities in green industries. Engaging community leaders, religious institutions and media outlets can amplify these messages and ensure they reach a broad audience.

There is a need for sustainable environmental policies. One way of promoting environmental sustainability is to ensure a strong and enforceable environmental policy by the government at both the national and subnational levels. The Nigerian government must prioritise environmental protection in its policy agenda. This includes but is not limited to implementing and enforcing laws that regulate pollution, protect natural habitats and promote sustainable land use.

Additionally, policies that incentivize renewable energy adoption, waste management, and conservation efforts can drive significant progress in promoting a sustainable environment. Federal and state ministries of the environment must ensure that international and local industries that operate in the country observe set rules and regulations that will engender a sustainable environment.

There is a need for community involvement and local solutions. Communities are at the heart of environmental sustainability. Local involvement in environmental decision-making ensures that solutions are tailored to the specific needs and contexts of different regions. Community-based initiatives, such as tree planting, waste management programmes, and conservation projects, empower citizens to take ownership of their environment.

Traditional knowledge and practices can also play a significant role. Many Nigerian communities have long-standing traditions of living in harmony with nature. Revitalizing and integrating these practices into modern sustainability efforts can provide valuable insights and enhance community engagement. Promoting green jobs, particularly for the youth, is equally essential in engendering a sustainable environment. For instance, training programmes and vocational education in fields such as renewable energy, environmental management, and sustainable agriculture can equip young Nigerians with the skills needed for a sustainable future.

There is a need for a sustainable environment and technology. No doubt, technology has revolutionised every facet of human endeavours and leveraging it can go a long way in ensuring environmental sustainability in Nigeria. For instance, innovations in renewable energy, waste management, and conservation can provide efficient and effective solutions to environmental challenges. Instead of relying on fossil fuels, solar and wind energy technologies can be adopted, while digital platforms can be used for waste collection and recycling.

Unarguably, building a culture of environmental sustainability in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach that includes but is not limited to environmental sustainability education, strong policies, community involvement, economic incentives, and technological innovation.

Environmental sustainability requires a collective citizen’s effort and participation of all sectors of society to succeed. Nigeria will enjoy a healthier and more prosperous future for its people and its environment if it embraces initiatives that promote environmental sustainability. There is no better time to act than now, and the benefits will no doubt be reaped for generations to come.

Ishola, a sustainability and renewable energy enthusiast, wrote from Illinois, USA