Lagos residents have called for actions to protect the environment and promote public health amid growing concerns over climate change, air pollution and environmental degradation.

The residents made the call in separate interviews on Friday in Lagos. They said collective efforts were essential to addressing environmental challenges, including flooding, rising temperatures and poor air quality.

The respondents expressed optimism that greater public participation in environmental protection initiatives would help mitigate the effects of climate change, improve air quality and create a healthier environment for future generations.

A resident of Ikeja, Ihuoma Osondu, identified proper waste disposal as one of the simplest ways residents could contribute to environmental protection.

According to her, refuse should be properly bagged and disposed of in designated bins rather than dumped indiscriminately.

“When waste is left uncollected, dogs, scavengers and birds often scatter it, causing much of the refuse to end up in drains and increasing flooding risks,” she said.

Also speaking, Ms Idris, a horticulturist in Surulere, highlighted the importance of plants in improving environmental conditions.

“Although Lagos has limited space for large-scale tree planting, residents can grow small plants around their homes to make the environment greener and healthier.

“Snake plants, for instance, require little space and can help beautify homes while contributing to improved air quality,” she said.

A mechanic in Ogba, Francis Abole, said reducing reliance on private vehicles and improving public transportation would help lower greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality.

“Routine vehicle maintenance and wider use of buses and other shared transport services can help reduce pollution. If more people use public transportation and keep their vehicles in good condition, we can reduce the amount of harmful emissions released into the air,” he said.

Babatunde Owolabi, a trader in Ojota, urged residents to adopt reusable shopping bags, water bottles and food containers instead of disposable plastic items.

He also encouraged households to separate recyclable materials such as plastics, paper, cardboard, metal cans and glass from general waste to support recycling and reduce the volume of refuse sent to dumpsites.

“We should carry reusable bags and properly separate recyclable materials. Small actions can have a significant impact when practised by many people,” he said.

Happiness James, a resident of Lagos Island, stressed the need for environmental education and awareness at the community level.

“People need to understand how their daily activities affect the environment. Awareness is the first step towards changing harmful habits,” she said. 

(NAN)