The Lagos State Government has stressed the need for green and improved air quality across the state to ensure healthy living.
This is contained in a statement signed by Adesoye Oyelami, the Assistant Director (Public Affairs), the Lagos Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), on Monday, January 15, 2024, in Lagos.
The statement noted that the present air quality in many parts of the state as indicated in the State’s Air Quality Index was unhealthy.
The government through LASEPA called for the understanding and joint efforts of the public towards achieving a common and sustainable action plan.
It noted that this would mitigate the climate change effect and its attendant consequences on human health.
Speaking on the development, Dr Babatunde Ajayi, the General Manager, LASEPA, noted that the Air Quality Index as released recently by the agency underscored the need to be environmental conscious.
Ajayi implored residents to retrace their steps and join hands with the government in protecting the environment through actions and activities that were more environmentally friendly.
He said people in the affected areas may suffer from respiratory-related diseases such as lung infections, asthma, cystic fibrosis, mesothelioma, pulmonary hypertension and running noses among others.
Ajayi listed other common diseases associated with poor air quality as high blood pressure, sight problems, irritation, heart problems, worsened underlying health conditions, and other related health issues.
He listed emissions from generators in residential areas and vehicular emissions as major contribution to poor air quality in some areas as most motorists pay little or no attention to the maintenance of their vehicles.
Ajayi also identified agricultural and industrial emissions as another major contributor to poor air quality.
He noted that there were other worrisome issues of agricultural activities such as the burning of cow skin as well as emissions from areas with large concentrations of industries.
“The entire Lagos has pockets of industries in different areas, so in areas with high industrial concentration, you will have poorer air quality,” Ajayi stated.
He underscored the importance of tree planting and urged residents to cultivate the habit of planting trees in homes and neighbourhoods to absorb carbon dioxide emitted into the environment.
He said that green energy was safer, more secure, and very environmentally friendly than diesel or gasoline oil.
Ajayi also urged the reduction in the number of vehicles on the roads through carpooling or a preference for public transportation rather than individuals putting their vehicles on the roads daily.
He pledged the commitment of LASEPA in monitoring the environment and implementing policies that would ensure compliance with government regulations and guidelines towards achieving a cleaner, safer, and pollution-free environment.
By Fabian Ekeruche
