Delta state government has called on residents to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases by transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency and promoting sustainable practice in every aspect of life.
The call was made by commissioner for environment, Mr. Ejiro Tommy Jamani, while delivering a keynote address during a one day seminar organized by the ministry of environment to sensitise ministries, departments and agencies on fixing ozone layer and reducing climate change.
The one day seminar drew participants from different ministries and agencies of government in the state, federal and state higher institutions of learning across the state and non-governmental organisations that have dealings with environmental issues.
In the event which held at the state secretariat on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, the commissioner, who was represented by the permanent secretary of the ministry, Dr. Mrs. Minnie Oseji, implored Deltans to take appropriate actions aimed at mitigating the impact of climate change and protect the ozone layer from depletion.
He listed the actions needed to include conducting regular inspection and maintenance of air-conditioning and refrigeration appliances to prevent and minimize leakage, embrace renewable energy and practices that promote energy efficiency, buy aerosol products that do not use chlorofluorocarbons, and others propellants, embrace sustainable land use options, purchase recycled products wherever possible and use global warming alternatives in production.
He said one of the ways of fixing the ozone layer is by phasing out the use of ozone depleting substances and replacing them with safer alternatives. He added that fixing the ozone layer would also include reducing carbon footprint and addressing climate change.
Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Mrs. Minnie Oseji, in a welcome address to participants, said the preservation of the ozone layer is a critical environmental issue that demands attention and action from Nigerians.
Represented by the director of climate change in the ministry of environment, Mrs. Briggs Vivian Doye, Dr. Oseji said it is important to protect the ozone layer as it shields the world from harmful ultraviolet radiation and plays vital role in maintaining balance of the ecosystem.
She noted that the theme of the seminar which is “Fixing the Ozone Layer and Reducing Climate Change” underscored the urgency of addressing the impact of climate change and global warming.
She said the seminar provided opportunity for participants to share knowledge and experiences and explore innovative solutions to the challenges posed by ozone layer depletion and climate change.
She said through a collaborative effort and collective commitment, Deltans, Nigerians and indeed people all over the world can work towards cleaner, greener and more resilient future for all.