Some stakeholders in the environment sector in Kaduna State have urged governments at all levels, groups and individuals to invest in a sustainable environment.

The stakeholders spoke in separate interviews in Kaduna on Sunday while reacting to the 2023 World Earth Day theme, “Invest in Our Planet”.

According to them, this would ensure a better future that will be environmentally nourishing and climate-friendly for everyone today, tomorrow and future generations.

Gloria Bulus said the climate crisis was increasing at an alarming rate.

Ms Bulus, also the state coordinator, Network of Civil Society in Environment, stressed the need for conscious efforts through increased investment in a sustainable environment for effective climate change mitigation and adaptation.

“The investment now and in the feature is towards a sustainable environment. We must make conscious efforts because the climate crisis is increasing alarmingly.

“We need to act boldly, innovate broadly, and implement environment and climate change programmes, projects, and interventions equitably,“ she said.

Olanike Olugboji-Daramola, founder and programme director, Women Initiative for Sustainable Environment, said everyone is responsible for protecting the planet.

Ms Olugboji-Daramola said the 2023 World Earth Day presents a perfect opportunity to reflect on the beauty of the planet and the responsibility to conserve it.

“The earth has given us so many gifts – clean air, fresh water, beautiful landscapes – which we must remember to take care of.

“This year’s theme ‘Invest in Our Planet” is a call for each one of us to make sustainable decisions while taking action towards creating an equitable future.

“Let’s all work together to invest in the health of our environment,” she said.

Jeremiah Elisha, secretary, Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) in the state, said that stakeholders must look beyond financial investment to building a new generation of climate and environment advocates.

Uche Egbe, another stakeholder, Empowering Women for Excellence Initiative (EWEI), called on stakeholders and businesses to shift toward sustainable environmental practices.

“We believe that by taking small steps towards promoting sustainability, we can make a big difference in protecting and preserving mother earth for future generations,” he said.

(NAN)