Ghanaians urged to intensify tree planting and forest protection to combat climate change

Ghanaians have been told to intensify their tree planting activities and better protect forests to combat climate change, according to a leading environmental expert. Dr. Owusu Fordjour Aidoo, from the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), explained that trees are vital in mitigating environmental degradation and the adverse effects of climate change.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Dr. Aidoo stressed that deforestation due to illegal mining, logging, bushfires, and other human activities is contributing to climate change. He emphasized that trees absorb carbon dioxide, releasing oxygen in the process, making forests a natural solution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The expert called on Ghanaians to view tree planting not just as a government responsibility but as a collective duty involving everyone. He highlighted that schools, churches, traditional authorities, businesses, civil society organizations, and community groups can all contribute significantly to afforestation efforts.

Dr. Aidoo noted that the enthusiasm for tree planting has waned and needs to be reignited to save the environment. He advocated for more robust measures to protect young trees, including regular watering, maintenance, and protection from various threats.

Furthermore, he stressed the importance of safeguarding existing forests, which serve as habitats for wildlife, maintain ecological balance, protect water bodies, reduce soil erosion, and improve environmental quality. Dr. Aidoo urged Ghanaians to see tree planting as a continuous national practice rather than an occasional activity during environmental campaigns.

He appealed for renewed national commitment to tree planting and afforestation, stating that it can help restore degraded lands, protect biodiversity, and address climate change.