The Geological Society of Nigeria (GSN) has called on the Federal Government to sustain the formulation and implementation of environmentally friendly policies toward achieving net zero carbon emission in the country.
President of the Society, Mr. Uba Sa’idu Malami who made the call at a recent inaugural event organized by the Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria (ATCN), in Abuja, noted that “President Tinubu’s directive that all government procurement of vehicles onward will be Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) or environmentally friendly is a significant step in our nation’s efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.”
Malami said the directive is in line with the sustainability roadmap of the FIA Environmental Strategy and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6, 7, 11, 12,13,14,15, and 17.
He assured that geologists have a role to play in the development of clean energy technologies as well as in the responsible extraction of natural resources.
“Geologists are essential to the realization of both set goals, and the Geological Society of Nigeria will work with relevant stakeholders,” he said to our correspondent on the sideline of the event.
“The Geological Society of Nigeria is committed to supporting the transition to a net-zero carbon future through sustainable mineral resource management.
While saying that Electric Vehicles (EVs) are a crucial part of the transition, the President reiterated that geologists play a vital role in ensuring the responsible mining of essential minerals like lithium, adding that sustainable mining practices are essential for reducing the environmental footprint of EV production and promoting a just transition.
He said by working together with stakeholders, Nigeria can ensure that the shift to EVs is both sustainable and equitable, adding that the Geological Society of Nigeria is dedicated to advancing this critical mission.
The GSN President stated: “It is with great pleasure that l join you today as the President of the Geological Society of Nigeria and the special guest of honor at this inaugural event organized by the Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria on the important topic of “Promoting Net Zero Carbon: Reducing Emissions from Automobile Services.”
“I commend the Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria for taking the initiative to organize this event. Your commitment to addressing the critical issue of reducing emissions from the automobile sector is truly commendable and aligns perfectly with the recent directive by our esteemed President, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
While saying that the automobile sector plays a crucial role in the effort to achieve net zero carbon emissions, he noted that “as one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions globally, the sector must take the lead in transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable technologies,” stating that the shift towards CNG and other environmentally friendly vehicles is a crucial step in this direction.
“CNG, or Compressed Natural Gas, is a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels, producing lower emissions and contributing to improved air quality in our cities,” Malami said.
Discussing the importance of collaboration and innovation in the realization of set goals, the President said achieving net zero carbon emissions in the automobile sector requires a collaborative effort among various stakeholders, including policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society organizations.
According to him, it also demands innovative solutions and technologies that can help us reduce emissions while maintaining the efficiency and convenience of our transportation systems.
“I am confident that with the commitment and expertise of the Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria and other key players in the sector, we can develop and implement effective strategies to reduce emissions and promote sustainable mobility in Nigeria.”
He pledged the commitment of the Geological Society of Nigeria to sustainability, saying, “As the President of the Geological Society of Nigeria, I can assure you that our organization is fully committed to supporting the transition towards a more sustainable future.”
“We recognize the critical role that geology plays in the development of dean energy technologies and the responsible extraction of natural resources.”
“Through our research, advocacy, and capacity-building efforts, we will continue to work closely with the automobile sector and other stakeholders to promote the adoption of sustainable practices and technologies.”
“I would like to reiterate my sincere appreciation to the Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria for organizing this important event. I am confident that through our collective efforts and commitment to sustainability, we can make significant strides in reducing emissions from the automobile sector and contribute to the realization of a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous Nigeria.”
