By Obiabin Onukwugha
Environmental advocacy body, Climate Africa Media Initiative Center (CAMIC), has expressed deep concern over what it called widespread felling of trees to make way for new infrastructure projects across Africa.
The body expressed the concern in a statement on Tuesday, January 21.
It observed that deforestation, driven by infrastructure development, contributes to biodiversity loss, disrupts ecosystems, and accelerates climate change by reducing the planet’s capacity to absorb carbon dioxide.
CAMIC stated that as urbanization and infrastructure development rapidly expand, the environmental cost, particularly the loss of biodiversity, and the exacerbation of climate change and desert encroachment, has become a pressing issue.
The statement, issued by CAMIC’S Chief Growth Officer, Pius Alabi, pointed out that indiscriminate felling of trees also acceletates desert encroachment, particularly in already vulnerable areas, threatening the livelihoods of millions of people dependent on these ecosystems.
“In light of these challenges, CAMIC urges policymakers, developers, and communities to adopt sustainable infrastructure practices that minimize environmental impact and promote ecological balance,” the statement read .
According to the body, instead of clearing trees, developers can integrate existing trees into the design of roads, buildings, and other infrastructure, preserving the natural landscape.
The body also suggested the adoption of vertical gardens and green rooftops can help offset the loss of greenery and improve air quality, while also conserving space.
CAMIC further stated that creating urban forests and green corridors within cities can maintain biodiversity and offer recreational spaces for communities, reducing the urban heat island effect.
The body emphaised that for every tree felled, at least two should be planted to ensure a net positive impact on the environment.
These projects, according to CAMIC should be part of every infrastructure development plan.