Awareness Raising and Community Consultation on Net Zero in Egor LGA, Edo State
Date: Monday 10th July, 2023
Location: Uyi Amengor Hall, Egor LGA Secretariat, Benin City, Edo State.
Introduction:
The program began at about 11:40am with the breaking of kolanut according to the Benin tradition and opening prayer lead by Chief Osadolor Tunde. It quickly follows with comprehensive introduction by the admin officer of Connected Advocacy Mr. Amos Ediabonya, who gave the rundown of the program both in English and Native language (Benin) to the people and the community Leaders.
Welcome address by the LGA Chairman:
The Chairman of Egor LGA who was ably represented by the Head of Socials (HOS) Mrs. Doris Iyobasa Oronsaye, gave a warmly welcome to all participants, including community leaders, local government officials, stakeholders, and representatives from various organizations. She emphasized the significance of the event in addressing the pressing issue of climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for the community. In her remarks, she gave the importance of achieving Net Zero emissions and clearly highlighted the potential impact on the community.
Welcome address by the Executive Director of Connected Advocacy:
The Executive Director of Connected Advocacy, a leading environmental organization, who also represented other consortium member; The 21st Century Issues and the International Climate Change Development Initiative, delivered an inspiring welcome address. The Director emphasized the critical role of community engagement and collaborative efforts in achieving Net Zero emissions. The importance of raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices within the community was highlighted.
First speaker (20 minutes):
A designated speaker Mr John Akintumile Akinnuba presented a detailed overview of the concept of Net Zero emissions. He spoke on the important of Net-zero and the imperative for community involvement, the meaning of NET-ZERO as the cutting greenhouse gas emissions (i.e., harmful chemicals that traps heat from leaving the earth) is close to zero as possible, with any remaining emissions reabsorbed from the atmosphere, by oceans and forests for instance. He added that to go net-zero is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and/or to ensure that any ongoing emissions are balanced by removals. This could be achieved if we reduce the harmful practice to our environment, he also identifies some good and bad practice to the environment, the importance of planting trees in our society as a climate action strategy and a way of achieving net zero. He also talked about forest management as a mitigative strategy of economic value.
Second speaker (20 minutes):
Another expert speaker Mr. Sunny Asejie gave the last presentation of the program, and he talked extensively on the need to move towards NET-ZERO and the benefit for residents, businesses and the environment, his presentation centered on transition to clean and just energy. He addressed the audience, focusing on the role that the community can play in achieving Net Zero. The speaker highlighted best practices and successful case studies from other communities. Topics covered included energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, waste management, sustainable transportation, and community-based initiatives.
Contributions:
After the presentations, the floor was opened for participants to share their thoughts, ask questions, and provide contributions related to Net Zero in Egor LGA. Participants responded by saying how they will teach their community about the importance of planting trees. Another respondent made mention of the importance of Edo state government to lead by example in planting trees along roads as it benefits the environment both by absorbing carbon and releasing oxygen.
A respondent asked about how best to dispose refuse. The question was properly addressed by the first speaker Mr John Akintumile Akinnuba. Other respondent asked about how low-income families can afford solar energy; the question was properly addressed by Mr. Sunny Asejie. The need for community to form cooperative for renewable energy can help them reduce energy poverty and achieve sustainable development for their community.
The participants actively engaged in discussions, sharing their insights and experiences. The importance of knowledge sharing, capacity building, and fostering partnerships among community members and stakeholders was emphasized.
PANELIST SESSION
The Panelist in this session discussed and pointed out key issues as to the NET ZERO, if achievable or not in 2050. Majority of the Panelist and audience agreed on the fact that it is achievable, that there is need for more advocacy from the government working the talk and increase awareness creation, and community sensitization on NET ZERO.
A.O.B
Most participants thanked the consortium for providing such a laudable opportunity or medium to talk about climate change and the community. They also show great gratitude towards the information shared and the knowledge gained.
CLOSING REMARK
The HOS Mrs Oronsaye delivered the final address, expressing gratitude to the organizers, speakers, and participants for their active involvement in the event. She reiterated the commitment of the local government to support initiatives that promote environmental sustainability and emphasized the significance of community-driven actions in achieving Net Zero. The Chairman encouraged everyone to take responsibility for their individual and collective actions, and to advocate for sustainable practices within their respective spheres of influence. The program came to a close at about 2:30pm.
This activity report provides an overview of the awareness training and community consultation on Net Zero in Egor LGA, Edo State. The event successfully raised awareness about the concept of Net Zero and its relevance to the community, while also fostering meaningful discussions and encouraging active participation from all stakeholders.
The role of the community in achieving Net Zero emissions was highlighted, along with best practices and successful case studies. The event concluded on a positive note, with participants empowered and motivated to contribute towards achieving Net Zero in Egor LGA. The collaborative efforts of the local government, environmental organizations, and community members were acknowledged as essential in driving sustainable change and ensuring a greener future for the community.