African Activists Push for Methane Reduction Policies
Call for Laws on Methane Emissions at African COP
Activists Demand Action on Methane Emissions in Africa
BY SHEKWOPEYELO
Environmental activists have called on African governments to implement laws targeting methane emissions, emphasizing their role in climate change mitigation. This appeal arose during a side event organized by GAIA Africa, along with several advocacy groups, at the ongoing African People’s Counter Cop in Senegal.
At the event, Niven Reddy, GAIA Africa’s Coordinator, highlighted that waste contributes significantly to methane emissions, particularly from landfilling organic waste. Methane is over 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Reddy stressed that the most effective way to curb these emissions is to halt organic waste disposal in landfills by enhancing organic waste management strategies.
Additionally, Farima Tidjani from Adansonia Green reported that plastic waste constitutes 95% of Senegal’s waste, exacerbating environmental issues. She advocated for implementing organic waste management systems to promote composting and recycling, thus generating jobs and reducing pollution.
Desmond Alugnoa, also representing GAIA Africa, noted that Senegal produces 200,000 tons of plastic waste annually, with significant challenges in managing it. He criticized existing laws for failing to comprehensively tackle single-use plastics and for lacking robust enforcement mechanisms.
Melody Enyinnaya, a Project Manager at CODAF, pointed out that Nigeria struggles with effective waste management policies. She urged for genuine solutions that promote waste segregation at the source and enforce existing regulations.
Activists at the event demanded priority policies that protect waste pickers, eliminate open dumping, and hold producers accountable for their waste. They believe that effective methane reduction strategies are essential for a sustainable future.
