Writing By Daniel Karlmax; Editing by Godwin Duru
An environmental organisation under the auspices of the ECOLMPACT Alliance Initiative has called on the public—especially students, women and youths—to intensify awareness on proper waste management and tree planting as part of efforts to protect wetlands and preserve the environment.
The Kaduna State representative of the organisation, Mr. Hassy Bonet, made this known during the group’s visit to Government Day Secondary School, Ungwan Rimi, to mark this year’s World Wetlands Day, themed “Celebrating Cultural Heritage through Wetlands.” in Kaduna.
According to him, the theme emphasises that traditional knowledge is not only part of cultural heritage but a valuable resource for sustainable wetland management and conservation in the face of modern environmental challenges.
He noted that the visit became imperative in view of the need to groom young minds, especially students, to become ambassadors and custodians of future wetlands and environmental preservation for sustainable development.
The students were enlightened on the importance of wetlands, including their roles in flood control, serving as wildlife habitats, supporting farming and fishing activities, as well as climate protection.
“When wetlands are destroyed, that is when you see cases of flooding, water pollution, loss of wildlife and fish, as well as loss of livelihoods and safety, among other disasters,” he said.
Mr. Bonet added that the students were also taught teamwork through mind games designed to foster cooperation, personal responsibility, mutual protection, and the promotion of peace and unity among people of different ethnic, religious and tribal backgrounds.
The environmental advocate further noted that wetlands, celebrated every February second, provide essential services such as freshwater supply, climate adaptation and mitigation, food security, and cultural value to communities across the globe.
He explained that the visit was part of the organisation’s commitment to biodiversity conservation, climate resilience and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, while encouraging governments, organisations and individuals to act collectively.
“Wetlands are disappearing faster than forests, and their decline threatens not only ecological balance but also human health, food systems and economic stability,” he added.
Speaking during the visit, the Senior Mistress Administration of the school Mrs. Shomope Jesuseme expressed appreciation to the organisation, saying the initiative had widened her understanding and that of the students on wetland conservation.
She pledged to extend the awareness to other communities to help achieve the set goals and objectives.
Some of the students also pledged their commitment to serve as wetland ambassadors in their various communities, vowing to safeguard their environment from degradation and collapse.
Daniel Karlmax
