The International Climate Change Development Initiative (ICCDI) is taking a significant step towards fostering a climate-smart generation across Africa. The organisation strategically leverages various sports activities to create awareness and drive advocacy regarding climate change. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of engaging communities in discussions about climate issues, particularly at the grassroots level.
Recently, the Executive Director of ICCDI, Mr. Olumide Idowu, spoke about this commitment during a football competition. The event aimed to bring attention to climate change advocacy by incorporating sports, which resonates deeply with the youth and community. By utilising popular sporting events, the ICCDI hopes to reach a broader audience and encourage active participation in environmental stewardship.
The event, titled “Sports for Climate Justice,” was designed to raise awareness about the impacts of climate change on the environment.
Idowu emphasised the importance of educating participants about their responsibilities towards their surroundings. By integrating climate education into sporting activities, the ICCDI aims to inspire individuals to take actionable steps in combating climate challenges.
Idowu outlined the organisation’s plan to hold this advocacy event biannually across Nigeria. He wanted to extend these initiatives beyond Lagos, highlighting the need for nationwide engagement. The ICCDI envisions a future where climate change awareness is prevalent across all states, not just in urban centres, thereby fostering collective responsibility among all citizens.
Football is the primary focus of these activities, but Idowu mentioned that other games, such as Ludo and Draft, will also be introduced over time. This diversification in sporting activities aims to attract a wider audience and increase participation among various community members. By creating opportunities for engagement through different forms of play, the ICCDI hopes to stimulate interest in climate advocacy.
Five teams participated in the event’s inaugural edition, showcasing the community’s enthusiasm and commitment to climate action. The involvement of local sports teams not only brings a competitive spirit to the initiative but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared responsibility among participants. This grassroots approach is essential for promoting a culture of environmental awareness.
Mr Ayobami Okunola, representing the office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy, discussed the importance of a circular economy in addressing climate change challenges. He pointed out that viewing climate change through an economic lens is crucial for developing effective solutions. Integrating environmental concerns into economic strategies can lead to innovation and sustainable growth.
Okunola also highlighted the opportunities that waste management presents for athletes, suggesting that it could lead to sustainable careers post-retirement. This perspective encourages athletes and sports organisations to consider how their practices can contribute positively to the environment and create economic opportunities. The connection between sports and sustainability is increasingly becoming a focal point in discussions around climate action.
Dr Tunde Ajayi, General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), noted that climate change affects all aspects of human endeavour, including sports. He emphasised that sporting activities contribute to climate change through travel and energy consumption. This acknowledgement is crucial for understanding sports’ broader environmental impact and developing strategies to mitigate these effects.
Ajayi’s insights about the reliance on fossil fuels for powering stadiums and the emissions generated from travel during sports events underline the urgent need for sustainable practices in the sports industry. The event gathered youths educated on mitigating climate change by caring for their environment, emphasising the importance of proactive engagement in the fight against climate issues. By equipping the younger generation with knowledge and tools, the ICCDI aims to cultivate a future where environmental stewardship is ingrained in everyday life.
