Reported by Johanna Hannu
Climate and Sustainable Development Network (CSDevNet) hosted an activity in commemoration of the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer with the theme “Montreal Protocol: Advancing Climate Action.”
This advocacy was held on X Space, bringing together prominent journalists, environmental activists, and media stakeholders.
The webinar featured insightful contributions from two distinguished speakers: Mr. Ediongsenyene Ndunobong, Executive Director of the Blue Green Initiative for Sustainable Development Network, and Jiata Ekele, Knowledge Management and Extension Assistant, CSDevNet.
The webinar, hosted by Johanna Hannu, aimed to raise awareness about the protection of the ozone layer and climate mitigation efforts in Nigeria.
It aimed to increase understanding of the ozone layer’s importance, the science behind its depletion, and the global and local actions taken to protect it. It also discussed how protecting the ozone layer contributes to climate resilience and the broader fight against climate change, particularly in the Nigerian context.
The role of ozone layer protection in achieving SDGs, especially those related to health, climate action, and sustainable communities were emphasised. And, discussions on policy frameworks, community actions, and innovative solutions that can be implemented in Nigeria to protect the ozone layer was encouraged.
In his overview of the Montreal Protocol and its linkage to climate mitigation in Nigeria, Mr. Ediongsenyene Ndunobong highlighted its global achievements and significant impact in reducing ozone-depleting substances.
He emphasised the importance of technology transfer to developing nations, proper education for young minds to promote sustainable practices, and the adoption of ecological and sustainable agricultural methods to mitigate ozone depletion.
Additionally, he stressed that many everyday products, such as perfumes and cosmetics, contain chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which, when released into the atmosphere, rise to the stratosphere and contribute to ozone layer depletion. This not only increases UV radiation exposure but also exacerbates the effects of climate change.
Mr. Ediong called for heightened public awareness, stricter regulations on CFC-containing products, and the promotion of eco-friendly alternatives to ensure the protection of both the ozone layer and the environment for future generations.
The second speaker, Jiata Ekele, highlighted the current challenges in phasing out ozone-depleting substances (ODS) in Nigeria, such as economic and financial constraints, insufficient capital development, and reliance on imports.
She noted that public awareness regarding the consumption of ODS is low, making it essential to raise awareness among the general population.
Jiata emphasised the need to promote ozone-friendly pest control methods, support local initiatives, and encourage the transition to more natural products with low global warming potential.
She called for scaling up capacity-building efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, noting that with these actions, Nigeria can make significant progress toward achieving SDG 13 (Climate Action), improving consumer behavior, and enhancing its role in global ozone protection efforts.
Some of the recommendations from the session include promoting technologies and practices that minimise the release of ozone-depleting chemicals, supporting innovation in industries to develop and implement ozone-friendly products, and increasing public awareness about the importance of the ozone layer and the impact of everyday products like cosmetics and perfumes; educating consumers about eco-friendly alternatives and the role of personal choices in ozone protection.
Protecting the ozone layer is essential for both human health and climate action. Hosting a webinar was an effective way to raise public awareness of its importance.
By phasing out ozone-depleting substances, adopting ozone-friendly technologies, and building capacity, we can help achieve SDG 3 (Good Health) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
A healthy ozone layer boosts climate resilience and protects future generations, making global and local efforts crucial to sustaining the progress of the Montreal Protocol