FG, Stakeholders brainstorm on reducing emissions from automobile sources
By Matthew Denis, Abuja
The Federal Government in collaboration with Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria (ATCN) have provided remedy towards reducing emissions from automobile sources as a crucial step towards mitigating climate change and improving air quality.
Speaking at the event held in Abuja, the Director of Pollution and Health Control Department Federal Ministry of Environment, Engr. Bahijjahtu Abubakar lauded the initiative as a means of conserving our atmosphere.
Engr. Bahijjahtu suggested that we can reduce air pollution through transition to cleaner energy which is a shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy like hydroelectric power, solar and others.
“We working with other sister ministries to discourage deforestation of trees, increase afforestation and adopt sustainable agriculture activities.”
On his part, the President of ATCN, Mr. Ishaku Bamaiyi said, “it is important to acknowledge the significant impact that carbon emissions from automobiles have on our environment and Public health.”
“In Nigeria transportation is a major contributor to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and with rapidly growing population and urbanisation the numbers of vehicles on roads are increasing thereby increasing carbon emissions posing serious health risks on citizens.”
He stressed that “Together, we can journey towards a cleaner and greener future as this event is a significant step in our collective effort towards promoting net zero carbon emissions from automobiles.”
The President said ”together we can use this opportunity to make a lasting impact to pave the way for a cleaner, healthier and sustainable country.”
The keynote speaker, Policy Manager for Africa Methane Pollution Prevention, Dr. Mohammed Dahiru Aminu who presented paper on the theme: ‘Promoting Net Zero Carbon, Reducing emissions from automobiles sources’ said, “Promoting Net Zero Carbon means advocating for and working towards achieving a balance between the amount of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) produced and the amount removed or offset thereby, resulting in no net increase in GHGs in the atmosphere.”
Dr. Dahiru advocated that Zero Carbon is crucial for mitigating climate change, as it helps to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
“Reduce the severity of climate change impacts and protect the environment and public health.To achieve Net Zero Carbon, individuals, organisations, and governments can transit into renewable energy sources and Increase energy efficiency,” he said.
He suggested that Electrify transportation and industry, noting that by promoting Net Zero Carbon, we can create a more sustainable future for all!
Also speaking, the Director of Environmental Standards at National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Mr. Ayuba Francis Jacob, commended the programme noting that they are working as an agency to control emissions from vehicles to eradicate air pollution.
He stressed that the public needs to be aware of this Programme to know the importance of ensuring good quality air as these will be achieved through involving all stakeholders to reach people at the grassroots.
The Director called for a massive afforestation programme as the greatest antidote to climate change in the country because when trees are planted its reduces emissions.
