Protecting Forests in Global North Countries: A Call to Action
Sikeade Egbuwalo, the biodiversity lead at Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Environment, is sounding the alarm on the impacts of logging in the Global North that are reverberating all the way to countries like Nigeria. The urgent need for a more equitable, coordinated approach to tackle deforestation is clear, as Nigeria and other nations grapple with the devastating consequences of forest loss and degradation.
Challenges in Nigeria
In Nigeria, the effects of forest loss are acutely felt, with unique wildlife and plants disappearing, desertification encroaching, rainy seasons failing, wetlands declining, and food supplies dwindling. Indigenous communities, who have lived sustainably on the land for generations, are now struggling to survive in the face of these environmental challenges.
Ambitious Goals
To combat these issues and safeguard our forests, Nigeria is spearheading efforts to protect 30% of the West African ECOWAS region by 2030 through the implementation of robust policies.
Global Disparities
However, despite global commitments to combat deforestation, there exists a troubling double standard that allows the wealthiest nations in the Global North to sidestep accountability for the impacts of logging in their own forests. This disparity threatens the ambitious goal set forth at COP26 and COP28 to halt and reverse forest loss and degradation by 2030.
Critical Ecosystems at Risk
The boreal and temperate forests in the Global North are vital ecosystems that play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration. Yet, these forests are facing alarming rates of clear-cutting and tree cover loss, with forestry practices driving some of the highest deforestation rates globally.
Global North’s Responsibility
Despite scientific evidence highlighting the detrimental effects of logging, countries in the Global North continue to defend their practices as sustainable while shifting the focus solely to tropical deforestation in the Global South.
Equity and Collaboration
As we approach COP30 in Brazil, it is imperative that all nations commit to shared responsibility in protecting forests globally. Nigeria, along with other African nations, advocates for the development of a global forest accountability and equity framework to ensure uniform standards for forest protection across all regions.
Call to Action
The fight against forest loss and degradation is a global issue that requires collective action from all countries. As we strive to protect and restore our forests for future generations, it is essential that we work together as true partners, transparently and equitably, to address the challenges that threaten our shared future.
Join us in this crucial endeavor to safeguard our forests and combat the harmful impacts of climate change. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a sustainable future for all.