Flower Garden Ilorin: A call for more green spaces in fight against climate change

BY DARE AKOGUN

The revitalisation of the Flower Garden Ilorin is a testament to the Kwara state government’s commitment towards the fight against climate change.

This strategic initiative not only beautifies the landscape of the city but also contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions, playing a critical role in combating global warming. Kudos must be given to the state government for recognising the importance of this issue and taking the necessary action.

By committing resources to remodel the facility, the government has effectively created a green sanctuary that serves as a natural carbon sink, absorbing carbon dioxide, one of the primary greenhouse gases responsible for climate change.

This action is an effective demonstration of what can be achieved locally in combating global environmental challenges. The government has shown that with vision and commitment, it is possible to incorporate climate action into urban planning.

The remodelled “Flower Garden” has not only beautified the city of Ilorin but also provides a serene environment for the inhabitants, enhancing their quality of life while contributing to the global fight against climate change.

However, the journey does not stop there. It is crucial that the government continues on this path and creates more green zones in the state capital territory, and beyond.

Green spaces are vital for a sustainable urban environment. They serve as the lungs of the city, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change. These areas also provide habitats for a diverse range of flora and fauna, promoting biodiversity within urban settings.

Furthermore, green spaces positively impact mental health, providing residents with natural, serene environments for recreation and relaxation.

As we applaud the Kwara government for its efforts so far, we must also encourage them to take a step further by actively participating in global climate conversations. The Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is one such platform where the state can make its voice heard.

The government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will host the 28th Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP 28), between November 30 and December 12, 2023, with a view to building on previous successes and paving the way for future ambition to effectively tackle the global challenge of climate change.

The meeting comprises the twenty-eighth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 28), the eighteen session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 18), and the fifth session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement (CMA 5).

Participation in COP meetings is important for two reasons. The first is that, it provides an avenue for Kwara state to showcase the significant work it is doing locally in mitigating the effects of climate change.

By sharing their initiatives, such as the remodeling of the Flower Garden Ilorin, they could through that, inspire other regions and cities globally and potentially attract international support for future projects.

Secondly, it allows the delegation from Kwara State to gain insights from other countries’ experiences. They can learn about best practices, innovative strategies, and effective policies that have been successful elsewhere. These insights can be instrumental in shaping the state’s future climate initiatives, policies and strategies, ensuring they are robust, effective, and based on proven success stories elsewhere.

The remodelling of the Flower Garden Ilorin is a commendable first step in the fight against climate change. Climate change is a global challenge that requires concerted efforts, and every step taken locally, like the steps taken by the Kwara State Government, brings us closer to achieving our global climate goals.

Dare Akogun is an Ilorin-based climate & environmental journalist he can be reached at [email protected]