We need more support to fight climate change – Scientists

Scientists are calling for more support from government to help deal with the problem of climate change and destruction being caused to the environment.

They warn life on Planet Earth will be unsustainable unless government and other stakeholders step up efforts at preserving the environment.

“All of us should be mindful of how we deal with the environment. We have to stop cutting trees and limit using our forests so there is less of deforestation.

We need to properly dispose of our garbage so that our water bodies are not filled with filth,” retired Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) scientist Dr. Margaret Atikpo told Joy news at an event in Accra to mark Earth Day and to ‘March for Science’ on Saturday.

The day is set aside to educate the public about the need to preserve the environment. “Government would have to spearhead these activities and support with the necessary funds,” she added.

More than a hundred people gathered on Saturday at the Afia Village in Accra to celebrate Earth Day and join in a global March for Science campaign that unfolded across more than 500 cities all over the world with the main event in Washington DC – USA.

The march is being organised by scientists skeptical about the agenda of US President Donald Trump who has repeatedly described climate change as a hoax and is planning to push through policies that scientists fear could reverse the gains made in saving the planet from peril.

In an exciting atmosphere, there were teachings focusing on what can be done to preserve the environment. There were also teachings on the need for science to be at the forefront of national development, and what can be done to encourage more women to venture into science and technology.

Outdoor activities included hands on teachings about recycling and video shows on climate change and science.

According to organisers of the Accra March for Science, “we (in Ghana) march for science because the action of one country affects all of us…sitting on the edge of the ocean, we are concerned about climate change and ocean pollution and their effects on agriculture in Ghana.”

“It’s our turn to lead. So our world leaders can follow by example,” the Accra March for Science team added.

Managing Director of Ghana’s largest circulating newspaper, Daily Graphic, Kenneth Ashigbey who spoke at the event called for an immediate end to illegal mining to preserve the environment.

2015 UNICEF Reach for Change Award Winner Cordie Aziz also advocated recycling of refuse as a way to preserve the environment.

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com |Joseph Opoku Gakpo| Joy News