Did you know the activities of man and other natural occurrences leads to the release of carbon into the atmosphere? And, the release of this carbon can be from the burning of fossil fuels and the conversion of land for forestry? Well, these activities change the land surface and emit various substances such as carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. When this gas is released into the atmosphere to the detriment of the environment and the people living in it, it is termed carbon emission. It has posed a serious threat to Nigeria’s climate leading to climate change, but through extensive study and research, man has proffered solutions to combat these threats.
Deforestation is the deliberate felling of trees for man’s use, without replacement. If there are fewer trees, then there would be excess carbon dioxide, present in the atmosphere, which contributes to climate change. Government should legislate against the felling of trees without replacement and ensure that for every tree cut down; two are planted in its place. This would increase the number of trees absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Individuals should also be enjoined to develop green thumbs. In addition, when carbon is released into the atmosphere, it results in the gradual depletion of the ozone layer.
The ozone layer refers to a tiny layer in the atmosphere that prevents or reduces the amount of sunlight or radiation from getting to the surface of the earth. Over the years, this layer has been reducing leading to a direct release of radiant light to the earth surface resulting in the intensity of heat in Nigeria-causing a gradual change in climate. Government as well as non-governmental organizations should embark on symposia and public awareness programmes on carbon emission, it’s adverse effects on Nigeria’s climate and how to reduce these affects with the help of mass media, and by reaching people physically on the street, stadiums etc. Also, certain laws must be made to ban the activities of human beings that are capable of causing carbon emission such as: gas flaring by the petroleum drilling companies and refineries, the use of aerosols by companies and compulsory treatment of fumes from industries to make them environmentally friendly. Lastly, carbon emission traps the sun’s heat.
The warmer temperature enhances evaporation which reduces surface water and dries out soil and vegetation making periods with low precipitation drier than they would be in colder conditions, thus creating a change in climate. In Nigeria, everyone strives to drive a car mostly because they believe it is a sign of wealth and success, but this ‘sign’ is a major cause of carbon emission. The fumes from the exhaust pipes of fuel driven cars release carbon into the atmosphere. Free public transport should be supported by grant from the Government.
This would encourage individuals to reduce the use of their personal cars, as free transport is a cheaper alternative and decreases the amount of carbon being emitted into the atmosphere. In conclusion, carbon emission has had adverse effects on Nigeria’s climate. Both the government and individuals should make efforts to reduce it. Although the former need to put in more efforts, individuals should still play their part. A wise man once said ‘lots of little solutions can solve a big problem’.
• Akonobi Kosisochukwu is SS3 Student of Mater Ecclesiae College, Epe, Lagos.
