CLIMATE CHANGE: NGOs ADVOCATE TREE PLANTING

By O'Seun Ogunsakin

As the world continues to get affected by the shift in weather patterns, some Non- Governmental Organizations in Ekiti State have stepped up the sensitization of the citizenry in order to restore the ecosystem and combat climate change.

Speaking at Christ School Ado Ekiti during a tree planting programme in commemoration of the 2021 World Environment Day, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Triple G Eco Revival Solutions, Mrs Oluwaseyi Ebenezer stated that it is the duty of the present generation to bequeath a sustainable environment on the future generations by embarking on tree planting.

Ebenezer who explained that her NGO decided to embark on tree planting programme not only because it would help in restoring the ecosystem and combating climate change but also because it would add aesthetic value to schools.

The CEO added that trees serve as wind breakers and they would be good protectors especially at a time that rainfalls are characterized by rainstorms.

 She noted that tree planting is one of the most environment-friendly activities that people can embark on to save the planet.

Ebenezer who commended the participants for showing up at the programme reminded that protecting the planet is a demonstration of their commitment to helping humanity and the environment.

She charged the students of Christ School to always take care of their environment and the trees planted; adding that the tress were not just planted as mere formalities but planted to be catered for in order to protect the environment.

The CEO added that her NGO has partnered with Simioni Farms to ensure regular monitoring of the newly planted trees.

In her remarks, the State Commissioner for Environment, Mrs Iyabo Fakunle-Okhiemen who declared the programme opened highlighted the benefits of tree planting to include combating global warming, preventing climate change by removing carbon dioxide from the air, storing carbon in it and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere and serving as wind breaker during storms.

She advised the students to take care of the trees and their environment.

Also present at the programme were dignitaries including the Senior Special Assistant (Environment) to the Ekiti State Governor Dr Akinyemi Akinyugba, the State Coordinator of National Environment Safety, Regulation and Enforcement (NESREA) Mrs Toroni Abosede, the Principal of Christ School Ado Ekiti, Rev . Canon Olurotimi Oso, and the CEO Simoni Farms, Mr Temitope Adewole among others.