On September 25, 2023, during his inaugural press briefing, Comptroller Timi Bomodi, the Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, announced the interception of live endangered African Grey Parrots, Green Parrots, and a hawk. These animals, valued at N6,859,832, were seized at the Gbaji checkpoint en route to the Benin Republic, based on credible intelligence received in the early hours of the same day.

Comptroller Bomodi revealed that the creatures were discovered in a luxurious bus travelling from Kaduna to Lagos, to be sold abroad. He emphasized that such illicit trade in endangered species is a significant concern, as these animals hold high value outside the country, motivating individuals to undertake considerable risks in smuggling them.

Underlining the Nigeria Customs Service’s dedication to combating this illicit trade, Comptroller Bomodi disclosed that two suspects were apprehended in connection with the seizure. He further explained that as a signatory to the convention on illicit trade in endangered species, it is the responsibility of the Nigeria Customs Service to ensure that such trades are halted.

The seized animals were subsequently handed over to Comptroller Sanusi Magashi, the Controller of the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Services. It is within his purview to temporarily safeguard and nurture these animals before releasing them to a national park. Comptroller Magaji praised the Seme Area Command for their effective coordination, lauding their efforts as a job well executed.

World Rivers Day, established in 2005, is dedicated to reminding us of our invaluable aquatic landscapes. This commemoration reminds us to cherish and safeguard this priceless resource we have, it emphasizes the significance of rivers in sustaining life and urges individuals to take action for the conservation of these natural bodies.  In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of World Rivers Day, and the role of rivers in our ecosystems, and offer practical ways to contribute to the preservation of these bodies.

This year’s World Rivers Day centres on the concept of the “Rights of Rivers.” This theme underscores the profound value of rivers, recognising them as the vital force of our planet, sustaining all forms of life. Rivers supply vital water resources for human, animal, and plant life and serve as natural channels for efficient transportation.

The Importance of World Rivers Day

 World Rivers Day is a day set to remind us of our precious water bodies and aims to foster awareness about the crucial role that rivers play in our environment and society. It provides the international community with an opportunity to come together to talk about the vital role water plays in our lives– Consumption, Transportation, Recreation etc. It’s a day that reminds us of our shared responsibility of protecting our waters from harm.

Roles of rivers in our ecosystem

1. Water Source – Rivers are the primary source of freshwater supply for drinking, agriculture, and industrial use. rivers play a crucial role in providing us with clean and usable water for our daily needs.
2. Biodiversity – Rivers are the home to several species of sea creatures, they serve as the habitat to countless species of fish, birds, insects and mammals.  All these creatures together create a connected and balanced environment where they can thrive and depend on each other for survival. So, rivers are not just water; they’re bustling ecosystems full of diverse life forms.
3. Transportation and Trade – Throughout recorded history, rivers have been crucial for transportation and trade. They enable people and goods to move from one place to another, which in turn leads to economic growth and the exchange of different cultures. In simple terms, rivers have always been important for moving things around and for the development of economies and cultures.
4. Recreation – Rivers offer enjoyable activities like fishing, swimming, boating, and more, offering valuable chances for relaxation and leisure.
5. Natural Filtration Systems – Rivers work like natural cleaners, taking out dirt and harmful substances from the water. This is really important because it keeps the water safe and clean for both the animals that live in it and for us to use.

Practical Ways to Contribute to the Preservation of Rivers

1. Taking steps to fix any leaks, opting for water-saving appliances, and being conscious of how much water you use are effective strategies to reduce the amount of water consumed in your home. This helps conserve this precious resource and can lead to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly household.
2. Trees and plants that grow along the edges of rivers (riverbanks) play several important roles. They help hold the soil in place, which prevents it from being washed away by the water (erosion). This is crucial for maintaining a stable environment. Additionally, these trees and plants offer homes and shelter for various kinds of wildlife. One way to support this ecosystem is by getting involved in tree-planting programs or projects that aim to restore and enhance these natural areas. By participating in such initiatives, you’re actively contributing to the health and stability of river ecosystems.
3. Spreading information and knowledge about why rivers are crucial for our environment and society. It also involves actively supporting and promoting rules and guidelines that focus on taking care of rivers in a way that ensures they can be used and enjoyed for a long time without causing harm to the environment or depleting their resources. This can involve things like controlling pollution, managing water usage, and preserving the natural habitats around rivers.
4. Become part of efforts to clean up rivers in your local area. It could involve participating in organized events where community members come together to remove trash and harmful substances from the riverbanks and the areas nearby. This action helps in keeping the river environment clean and safe for both wildlife and people. It’s a practical way to contribute to the well-being of the ecosystem and ensure that the river remains a healthy and enjoyable place for everyone.
5. Share information like this about World Rivers Day and the significance of rivers with your friends, family, and community members. Having knowledge about this topic is a potent catalyst for making positive differences.

World Rivers Day offers a special chance to engage with nature and acknowledge the crucial role rivers play in supporting life on our planet. Getting involved in activities that advocate for river conservation allows us to enhance the health of our ecosystems and communities. On this significant day, let’s unite to celebrate the life-giving essence of rivers and pledge to protect them for the well-being of generations to come.

Today, September 21st, marks an exceptional occasion – Zero Emission Day. This day presents a wonderful and enjoyable opportunity to not only celebrate our cherished planet but also to unite in an effort to shield it from the detrimental effects of air pollution, a major contributor to global warming. Every year on this date, individuals across the globe engage in various activities aimed at advocating for clean air and minimizing both greenhouse gas and carbon emissions. It is a collective endeavour to foster a sustainable environment for all.

Established in 2008, today is a special day dedicated to giving our planet a break from harmful fossil fuels and the pollution they cause. It’s also a chance to talk about the importance of using renewable energy sources and how each of us can make a positive impact by changing our habits.

Today, our focus is on understanding how we can actively support this day by adhering to the following steps:

1. Conserve Energy – Use less electricity by turning off lights and appliances when you’re not using them. Opt for energy-saving devices and use natural light instead of electric lights. Also, unplug chargers and gadgets you’re not using. This helps save energy and keeps the air cleaner. If you can, try using candles or enjoy the sunlight instead of using electric lights.
2. Use Public Transportation – Cut your emissions by sharing rides, using public transit, or walking/biking for short trips. Riding your bike is a healthy, eco-friendly choice. If biking isn’t an option, take the bus or train to lessen city traffic and pollution. Walking is good exercise and helps the environment too. If you must drive, carpool with friends or family to reduce the number of cars on the road.
3. Plant Trees – Planting trees is a great way to help the environment. They absorb carbon dioxide and give shade and homes to animals. You can do this in your yard or join a community event. Trees make the air cleaner, too. Get involved in tree-planting projects or support local green areas.
4. Support Local Businesses – Choose local businesses that care about the environment. Look for ones using recycled or renewable materials. If you own a small business, you can help too. Give discounts for using reusable bags and use eco-friendly practices. It’s not just about the environment, it’s also about keeping our local economy strong!
5. Learn and Enlighten – Learn and talk about climate change. Read, watch, and discuss with family and friends how we can help. Share useful articles like this on social media. Every person matters, but we all need to join in for a big change. Spread the word about zero emissions and eco-friendly habits. Support rules that make our future greener.

Even small actions add up to a better planet. Together, these steps make a big difference in cutting emissions and keeping our Earth safe. Zero Emissions Day is a chance to enjoy and care for our planet. Join in, support sustainable living, and speak up for a greener world!

African Climate Week (ACW) 2023, convened from September 4th to 8th, made resounding steps with the theme:  “African Solidarity for Global Climate Action.” Jointly organised by the United Nations (UN), the African Union (AU), and the Kenyan government, this event held deep importance for the shared effort in advocating for climate action in the region. At the same time, Nairobi played host to the inaugural African Climate Summit, a joint effort involving these groups. At the heart of it was a significant report, created in cooperation between AFRIK 21 and the West African Development Bank (BOAD). This report explored how Africa deals with finances, addresses problems, and strengthens its ability to withstand challenges in both economic and environmental aspects. Notably, a staggering investment of over 3,000 billion dollars by 2030 is imperative to effectively tackle the challenges of mitigation and adaptation.

ACW 2023 was an important event for working together in the region. It focused on five important areas: energy, cities and towns, transportation, land and water, and people’s well-being and jobs. The discussions in these areas will be really important for the first-ever global assessment happening at the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference in November.

This year’s ACW was hosted by the Government of Kenya, with help from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), and the World Bank Group. They worked alongside regional partners like the African Union (AU), the African Development Bank (AFDB), and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA). By lining up ACW with the Africa Climate Summit, they made sure both events had an even bigger effect and reached more people.

These Regional climate weeks are really important for involving and empowering stakeholders to exchange views, share ideas about how to deal with climate issues and talk about how we can make things better in different areas.

In these times when it’s really important to take action on climate, ACW 2023 shows how Africa is really dedicated to taking care of the environment. The ideas of working together and supporting each other are not just important in Africa, but all over the world. This reminds us that we all need to work together to face the biggest challenge our planet has ever seen.

In an article posted on the 7th of September 2023, here at conservationsNg we wrote of two Nigerians; Yewande Akinse and Fela Akinse who launched an AI-powered search engine aimed at combating climate change by removing carbon dioxide (CO2) out of the atmosphere—their innovative project pap.earth is what this article is aimed at elucidating. 

Here are 5 things you need to know about pap.earth:

1. As found on their official website, pap.earth is a gamified search engine that combines the power of artificial intelligence with environmental impact. What does this really mean? Let’s break it down:Note that 3 keywords have been emboldened, the first gamified, What this means as regards pap.earth is that just like it was mentioned in the previous article, it incorporates elements of gaming like rewards by earning coins with every search making it more engaging and interactive for the users. The second is artificial intelligence, which means that the engine utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) technology which makes it possible for it to carry out tasks that typically require human intelligence, In this context, the AI is likely used to enhance the search engine’s capabilities making the search engine to effectively find and present the right information to users. Then, environmental impact, means the search engine is designed to positively affect the environment in some way, in this context, to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainability. So, all together, what these three points suggest is that the search engine not only incorporates advanced AI technology but also employs gaming elements to make the search experience more appealing. Additionally, it’s designed with consideration for its environmental impact.
2.  Another noteworthy feature you need to know about this engine is that it works just like any other search engine like Google, Bing and so on. This means people can use pap.earth just like they would use popular search engines like Google or Bing. This makes it easy for users to get used to pap.earth’s layout and features without any trouble.
3. While you search, the AI-powered algorithm used in making the engine calculates the carbon emissions associated with each search. It’s like a calculator that keeps track of the environmental impact of your searches.
4. Once the carbon emitted is calculated, pap.earth collaborates with climate impact projects to plant drought-resistant trees (trees that are good at surviving dry weather) that balance out the equivalent carbon generated by the search. It’s like a way of giving back to nature to make up for the carbon emissions.
5. Users can track their personalized dashboard, showing the number of trees planted and how much carbon emissions have been balanced out. This way users can see the positive impacts they’re making on the environment.

Today, September 16 marks the annual observance of the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, a day that powerfully highlights the vital role played by the ozone layer in helping maintain the delicate balance of life on our planet and highlights the collective effort needed to safeguard it. This year’s observance is centred around the theme: “Montreal Protocol: fixing the ozone layer and reducing climate change”.

This year’s observance was themed “Montreal Protocol: fixing the ozone layer and reducing climate change” by the United Nations with the aim of educating people about the importance of the ozone layer and how its depletion is leading to global warming and climate change across the world. What is the Ozone layer?

Ozone layer

The ozone layer is a region of the Earth’s stratosphere, about 10 to 50 kilometres above the Earth’s surface. It contains a high concentration of ozone (O3) molecules, which absorb the majority of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This layer acts as a shield, preventing most of this harmful radiation from reaching the Earth’s surface.

Okay, to simply put it, imagine the earth is a cosy bed on a chilly night, and the atmosphere is like a bunch of blankets (we’d refer to it as the “Ozone Blanket”). The “Ozone Blanket” is a special layer in this stack of blankets, positioned higher up, about 10 to 50 kilometres above us.

Now, this Ozone Blanket isn’t your regular blanket. It’s made of special molecules called ozone. These molecules are like the super warm and fuzzy part of the blanket that keeps you toasty.

When the sun decides to be extra intense (when the night is super cold), sending down those harsh ultraviolet (UV) rays, the Ozone Blanket springs into action. It’s like the superhero layer that catches most of these rays, making sure they don’t get through to us down here. It’s like the blanket telling you “Sleep tight, I’d keep you warm”.

History

In 1994, World Ozone Day was established to highlight the crucial role of the Ozone Layer in safeguarding our environment. Concerns about human activities harming the ozone layer were first raised by scientists in the 1970s. In response, governments worldwide rallied behind the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer, committing to its preservation.

On the 16th of September each year, World Ozone Day commemorates this milestone and reinforces the message that our united commitment remains the key to addressing this significant global challenge.

The Montreal Protocol

In 1987, the global community united to combat ozone layer depletion through the adoption of the Montreal Protocol. This crucial agreement was established with the aim of stopping the production and usage of substances that can harm the ozone layer. Since its inception, the protocol has gained global approval and remains an unmatched success in environmental conservation.

What can you do to support the Montreal Protocol?

1. Choose Ozone-Friendly Products: Look for labels that indicate products are ozone-friendly. Choose products that do not contain substances harmful to the ozone layer as a better option. To identify Ozone-Friendly products, look out for these: “Ozone-Friendly” or “Ozone-Safe”, “CFC-Free” “No CFCs”, “HCFC-Free” or “No HCFCs”, or Environmentally Friendly.
2. Energy Efficiency: Reduce energy consumption in your home and workplace. This can be achieved by using energy-efficient appliances and making conscious efforts to conserve energy. To apply these, you can: Switch to LED Bulbs, Unplug Devices, Use Energy-Efficient Appliances, Insulate Your Home (keeps your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, reducing the need for heating and cooling.), Wash Clothes with Cold Water, Use Natural Light (Open curtains during the day to let in natural light and reduce the need for artificial lighting.), Plant Trees and Shrubs.
3. Raise Awareness: Spread the word about the importance of the ozone layer and the role individuals can play in its preservation by sharing this article.
4. Support Policy and Regulations: Advocate for policies and regulations that protect the ozone layer and the environment as a whole.

The International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer reminds us of the power of global cooperation in the face of environmental challenges. By recognizing the significance of the ozone layer and taking proactive measures to safeguard it, we can secure a better, safer planet for both present and future generations. Let’s work together to preserve this vital shield that sustains life on Earth.

Given the increased rate of climate change worldwide and its harmful effects on Earth, Yewande Akinse and Fela Akinse, two Nigerians, have introduced an  AI-powered search engine aimed at addressing climate change.

The co-founders, in an official statement to BusinessDay, disclosed their search engine named pap.earth which is used not only as an aid to help users find information but also to empower them to contribute to the fight against climate change with every online search.

According to the co-founders, pap.earth functions very much like Google or any other search engine. The outstanding feature it has is that it’s an eco-friendly (has zero impact on the environment) search engine. It uses its profits to support lesser-known climate projects worldwide, helping fight climate change in a unique way.

Yewande Akinse, co-founder of pap.earth, explained how the app operates, stating, “Every search on pap.earth earns a coin. Users can collect these coins to either donate them to featured climate projects for likely sponsorship, or convert them at our partner stores for discounts and rewards.” This way, your searches directly contribute to positive climate action. She further explained that when using pap.earth, every user receives rewards through a fun system called gamification. 

Yewande mentioned that despite studying Law at university, the passion and concern for finding creative solutions to combat climate change challenges is what motivates her steadfast commitment. This commitment has led her to actively advocate for and lead efforts towards raising awareness for a sustainable environment.

Yewande emphasized that Pap.earth is at the forefront of the fight against the detrimental consequences that the severe effects of climate change cause to the Earth.

Co-founder and chief scientist of pap.earth, Fela Akinse shared that he created the pap.earth search engine with the aim of taking CO2 (Carbon dioxide) out of the atmosphere.

He pointed out a point in the quote, “We have a special opportunity to connect scientific knowledge with everyday people, equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to make meaningful contributions to a more eco-friendly earth. This is the essence of what Pap.earth, driven by AI, is all about”.

In a world confronted by terrifying environmental challenges, Yewande and Fela, the co-founders of Pap.earth, see their creation as a flare of hope.

Rtn. Peter Itawawansa, Assistant Governor of Zone 22 in Rotary Club, passionately encourages Nigerians to cultivate economic trees as a means of protecting the environment. He also emphasizes the importance of clearing overgrown weeds within their surroundings, stressing the aged adage that “health is wealth.”

Itawawansa delivered this message during a recent event at the Ugbolu Primary Health Centre in Oshimili North Council, Delta State with the collaborative effort involved between multiple Rotary Clubs, including Asaba Government House, Asaba Downtown, Okpanam Hilltop, Issele-Azagba Uptown, Asaba Bonsaac, and Rotaract clubs under District 9141 Nigeria, coming together for a four-in-one project aimed at enhancing healthcare services at the health centre.

In addition to urging individuals and organizations with a vibrant spirit to contribute to maternal and child care, Itawawansa shared the list of items donated to the health centre. This included mattresses, pillowcases, bed sheets, window curtains, hand hygiene materials, and sanitary waste bins. In addition, as an indication of environmental preservation, economic trees were planted to fortify the local ecosystem, and overgrown weeds were cleared from the premises, dignifying the quality of healthcare services provided to the community.

Itawawansa accentuated that this act aligns with Rotary Clubs’ worldwide vision, emphasizing that Rotary’s mission revolves around uplifting and empowering people.

In the Udu Local Government Area of Delta State, the Aladja community is struggling with an urgent environmental crisis that has sent shockwaves through its once-thriving fishing industry. Right at the core of this problem is oil bunkering. It’s basically this illegal and really damaging activity that’s become a big issue in the communities around the Warri River.

Comrade Oro Ivwrigheghweta advocated for the agrarian community, emerging as the voice of those who have seen their way of life turn around due to the actions of oil bunkering operatives. He emphasizes the bad effects of criminal activity and how it’s affecting the lives of people attached to it. For example, these illegal activities have led to the deaths of fish in the river, harming fishermen and finding them clashing with financial hardship.

Comrade Ivwrigheghweta emphasized, “Their actions have negatively impacted our environment. Fishermen are groaning the drastic decline in fish population.”

Ivwrigheghweta implored the government to take swift and decisive action against crime, particularly crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region. He also called for an end to security agencies accepting bribes from those engaged in this illicit trade.

On the 10th of August, World Lion Day, the Wild Africa Fund encouraged the public to stop eating illegal bushmeat, help protect lion’s habitat, and support anti-poaching measures to help protect lions

The total amount of lions remaining in West Africa ranges from about 120-374, and the rate of their extinction is rapid unlike those found in Southern African countries where these wild cats are protected. This transcends the loss of their habitat, they also suffer a decline in animals to prey on because of the bushmeat trade and they are sometimes killed for preying on farmers animals; the traps meant for catching bushmeats sometimes injure the lions and even kills them too.

In Nigeria, there are less than 50 Lions in the wild, and they are found in Kainji Lake National Park and the Yankari Games Reserve, both in northern Nigeria. In Ghana, researchers could not find a single lion since they’ve all disappeared, this does not only occur in Ghana, many other West African countries also have loss or no lions at all in their country like- Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Mali, and Sierra Leone.

Festus Iyorah, Nigeria’s Representative for Wild Africa Fund says in the quote “West African lions might disappear forever if we don’t urgently address the threats they face”. He further emphasised that if more practical steps are implemented, the Lions bounce back increasing the tourism rate in the country.

A lot of countries have been able to revive the extinction of the lions in their country- Rwanda for example, was able to revive the numbers of their lions after the civil war in 1990 and the Genocide in 1994 claimed them all, after several decades of no lions in the country, seven lions from South Africa brought to Rwanda’s Akagera National Park in 2015, followed by two more male lions added to the park in 2017 were used to revive the populations of lions in the country. Today, Rwanda’s Akagera National Park has about 58 lions. Wild Africa Fund believes that protecting and rebuilding West Africa’s critically endangered lions is possible, especially in countries like Ghana, where lions are possibly extinct.

Peter Knights, OBE, co-founder and CEO of Wild Africa Fund says that the disappearance of lions in West Africa would be tragic because it would mean no more tourist visits and there won’t be jobs in this niche like there are in southern and eastern African countries.

Wild Africa Fund is set to enlighten the public using mass media like the radio, TV, newspapers, billboard, and social media to inform people about the threats facing West African lions and reduce demand for illegal bushmeat. This Awareness campaign also features popular Afrobeat star Davido, Nigerian footballer Alex Iwobi and a short documentary film showing the great efforts that are implemented to protect lions and their habitat.