Anambra Tightens Environmental Regulations Amid Climate Concerns

The Anambra State Government has stepped up enforcement of environmental policies and regulations aimed at protecting and improving the environment in response to worsening climate change realities.

Dr Clem Aguiyi, the state Commissioner for Environment, disclosed this on Wednesday in Awka while speaking with newsmen ahead of the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, marked annually on September 16.

Aguiyi said the state continues to feel the effects of climate change and will not relent in implementing policies and laws that promote environmental sustainability. "Anambra is one of the places in the world that has taken the hit of the impact of climate change. We are, therefore, not backing down in developing and implementing policies and laws that protect the environment," he said.

The commissioner said the state government would strengthen enforcement of environmental laws and regulations governing pollution, carbon and gaseous emissions, bush burning, and other activities capable of releasing harmful substances into the atmosphere. He added that the government remains committed to maintaining a low-emission environment, in line with global efforts to mitigate climate change.

Aguiyi disclosed that the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo has also begun transitioning public power and utility supplies from diesel-powered systems to hybrid solar-powered systems. "Gov. Soludo's administration has led a just transition from diesel to hybrid solar-powered systems in powering public power and utility supplies. This is part of our commitment to reducing emissions and promoting cleaner and more sustainable sources of energy," he said.

The International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is observed every September 16 to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the ozone layer and phasing out substances that deplete it. The ozone layer, located in the stratosphere roughly 15 to 35 kilometres above the earth's surface, absorbs most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation, helping to protect humans, animals, plants, and ecosystems.

The day commemorates the signing of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer in 1987. This year's commemoration carries the theme: "Global Action for a Cooler Planet."