FORESTRY ACTIONS AND TECHNOLOGIES FOR ENHANCING CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN NIGERIA

Olajide, O. and Etigale, E. B.

ABSTRACT

Forestry and forests have been recognized to be a critical factor in the mitigation of climate change and environmental sustainability. Thus, this paper discusses forestry actions that can enhance climate change mitigation and environmental conservation in Nigeria, which include conservation and preservation of remaining natural forests, massive reforestation and afforestation, use of eco-friendly technologies for logging and timber processing, promotion of systemic agroforestry production and promotion of urban forestry. Recommendations proffered include among others, participatory management approach should be adopted and emphasised in the management of forest resources by collaborating with communities adjoining gazetted and protected forests, waste-saving technologies should be introduced and adapted for logging and wood processing, government should promote and encourage the use of alternative products to wood by ensuring their availability and affordability to drastically reduce the high rates of cutting down the forests and trees for timber and firewood, and comprehensive review of forestry policies and laws across the country to stimulate, encourage and enable mass participatory in forest conservation and tree planting for the purpose of climate change mitigation and overall environmental sustainability.

Keywords: Forestry, Forests, Climate Change, Mitigation, Environmental Sustainability