Oil spills, flooding menace: Group unveils community-based approach to protect environment
In response to the escalating challenges of oil spills, flooding, and climate change impacts, Sustainable Actions for Nature (SAN) has launched a community-based initiative aimed at empowering indigenous communities to actively combat environmental challenges. Recognizing the urgent need for local action in the face of global climate change, SAN is advocating for a community-driven approach to address and mitigate environmental issues.
The group emphasizes the critical role of community members in combating the ever-deteriorating global climate change, as these communities often bear the brunt of environmental challenges. Despite ambitious climate change reduction targets set by countries, including Nigeria’s goal of a 20 percent unconditional and 47 percent conditional reduction by 2030, there is a need for concrete steps to achieve these targets.
In Rivers State, SAN is taking the lead in spearheading actions in communities, starting with the Ogoni areas heavily impacted by pollution, oil spills, gas flares, and flooding. Despite the ongoing $1 billion UNEP Report recommended cleanup in Ogoni local council areas, new spills continue to complicate the environmental situation.
The group initiated training sessions in the Ogoni areas last week, with a focus on empowering indigenous communities to navigate and overcome environmental challenges. This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) priorities, emphasizing climate resilience at the grassroots level.
Clinton Dandison, an executive member of SAN, stated, “By equipping locals to address oil pollution and climate injustices, we amplify Nigeria’s commitment, ensuring active community involvement in achieving national climate goals. Our initiative complements the government’s vision for a holistic, inclusive, and climate-resilient society where all stakeholders should be held accountable.”
The training aims to empower community members to take conscious actions in adapting and mitigating the impacts of climate change in their environment. Trainees will be educated on negotiating with oil companies and the government in case of incidents, rather than resorting to violence. The expectation is that these individuals will become change-agents, leading efforts to defend the climate and educate others on environmental protection and reducing climate change impacts.
SAN plans to conduct periodic training sessions for the community, including advanced training in conflict resolution. ‘People’s Parliament’ summits will also be organized to facilitate ongoing negotiations with governments and international oil companies (IOCs) to fulfill their corporate social responsibilities.
SAN expresses gratitude for the support from resource persons and organizations that contributed expertise and insights during the training. The Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF) and Nigeria Climate Justice Alliance (NCJA) have been acknowledged for their contributions, making this impactful initiative possible.
Sustainable Actions for Nature remains committed to promoting positive change, and with ongoing support, the group looks forward to implementing more projects that empower communities and contribute to a sustainable and just world.
