Concerned about the looming threats of environmental pollution and its impact on human well-being, a gathering of experts convened in Ogun State on Wednesday to brainstorm solutions to this pressing issue. The 16th National Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Nigeria Institute of Landscape Horticulture (NILH) took place at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, where experts not only discussed potential remedies but also sought legislative support for a bill mandating landlords to plant trees on their properties.
Delivering the keynote address under the theme "Urban Greenery and Beautification as a Strategy for Control of Environmental Pollution and Climate Change," Dr. Elizabeth Augustus, the Provost of the Federal College of Agriculture, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, Oyo State, highlighted the urgent need for green solutions to combat environmental pollution. Dr. Augustus emphasized the far-reaching consequences of pollution, encompassing climate change, water and soil contamination, and its detrimental effects on aquatic life, agriculture, and wildlife, all of which ultimately impact human health.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, respiratory issues, and increased hospitalization rates were identified as major health concerns associated with pollution. Dr. Augustus proposed a strategic approach to environmental control, advocating for greenery and beautification as crucial interventions. She underscored the significant role of plants in the global carbon cycle and their potential for climate change mitigation. Dr. Augustus also highlighted the importance of phytoremediation, a plant-based method aimed at extracting pollutants from the soil and restoring fertility.
President of NILH, Kola Quadri, called on the National Assembly to pass legislation mandating homeowners to plant at least one tree on their premises as a proactive measure against climate change. Quadri stressed that climate change is a global issue, and implementing such laws would contribute to environmental preservation. Similarly, Emmanuel Bankole, the Ogun State chairman of the institute, emphasized the significance of the program in raising awareness among policymakers about the effects of climate change. Bankole expressed the institute's commitment to collaborating with governments at all levels to mitigate global warming and preserve the environment for future generations.
