From Climate Crisis to Community Action: ASA Leads the Way

Under the scorching Ghanaian sun, farmers are struggling more than ever. The weather they once knew is changing, making it harder to predict when to plant crops or when it might rain. People are sweating more than before, feeling the heat like never before.

While most people relate climate change exclusively to weather conditions, it is more than adverse changes in weather conditions. Climate change refers to the change in the temperature, rainfall patterns and other atmospheric conditions over a period of time.

While natural factors play a role in these changes, human activities have accelerated the process dramatically. The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, unsustainable use of paper, industrial processes, and methane emissions are major contributors. These activities release large amounts of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, trapping heat and causing the Earth's temperature to rise.

Causes and Effects

One significant cause of climate change in Ghana is the burning of rubbish and bushes, a common practice in many communities. When rubbish or bushes are burned out, they release harmful gases such as carbon dioxide  and methane () into the atmosphere. These gases are known as greenhouse gases and contribute to the greenhouse effect, trapping heat in the atmosphere and leading to global warming. According to research by the Environmental Protection Agency of Ghana, bush burning accounts for approximately 40% of the country's greenhouse gas emissions, making it a significant driver of climate change in the region.

Additionally, deforestation in Ghana is another major cause of climate change with far-reaching effects. Deforestation reduces the number of trees that absorb  and releases stored carbon when trees are cut down, burned, or left to decay. This process releases large amounts of  into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. It also disrupts local ecosystems, leading to the loss of biodiversity and increased vulnerability to extreme weather events such as floods and droughts. According to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Ghana has experienced a significant loss of forest cover in recent decades, with deforestation rates averaging approximately 2% per year.

Furthermore, the unsustainable use of paper in Ghana contributes to climate change through deforestation and emissions from paper production processes. The demand for paper products, including packaging, newspapers, and office supplies, leads to increased logging and the conversion of forests into plantations. These processes reduce the carbon sequestration capacity of forests and release carbon stored in trees into the atmosphere. Paper production processes, particularly those involving chemical pulping, emit greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane.

Solutions

Our planet is a beautiful and delicate place, but by working together, we have the power to protect it. Everyone can make a difference by taking small actions towards environmental conservation, such as planting trees and advocating for responsible water usage and waste management practices. In order to make a difference in protecting our planet, it is essential for the general public to take proactive measures to address the harmful effects of ignorance on climate change. We suggest implementing various initiatives to raise awareness and promote sustainable practices. These initiatives are aimed at combating ignorance and its harmful effects on climate change. We believe that it is necessary for everyone to take proactive steps to create a sustainable future. By fostering sustainable practices and raising awareness, we hope to make a positive impact on our environment.

First, planting trees and embracing home gardening can be a means of promoting green spaces within communities and reducing our carbon footprint.

In addition, we recommend utilizing dedicated websites or platforms to educate the community about climate change and advocate for action. Advocacy for waste segregation for proper disposal by waste management companies can be promoted through the platforms to minimize and potentially eliminate rubbish burning. Beyond education, waste segregation can also be made practical in schools, homes, and workplaces to promote responsible waste management and reduce methane emissions from landfills.

Finally, prioritizing eco-friendly transportation options such as public transport, biking, and walking can significantly contribute to reducing fuel consumption and air pollution. Let's collectively take these steps towards a greener and healthier planet.

At the African Science Academy (ASA), we're committed to implementing sustainable practices to reduce negative environmental impact. We are leading the way by doing proper waste segregation, green environment, using whiteboards and laptops instead of traditional paper-based resources. We encourage individuals, institutions and organizations to do same. This in a way will reduces paper consumption, diminishes deforestation, and preserves vital carbon sinks.

Conclusion

Climate change is an urgent problem that requires collective action at all levels of society. Addressing ignorance and fostering environmental literacy are imperative steps towards numbing its impacts. By implementing sustainable practices and advocating for awareness, we can pave the way for a greener and more resilient planet.

Students of the African Science Academy strongly believe that by educating ourselves and others, we are creating a more sustainable future for all. Whether it's reducing your carbon footprint, advocating for policy changes, or spreading awareness in your community, every action counts. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for generations to come.