"UENR Collaborates to Green SHSs: A Powerful Step in Combating Climate Change in Ghana"

In Faipre, Ghana, a tree-planting initiative is bringing life back to local schools. The Department of Forest Science at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), with help from the Global Greengrants Fund (GGGF), has taken action to combat climate change and promote sustainability.

Led by Professor Daniel Akoto, students teamed up with the Ahafo Young Women’s Movement (AYoM) to plant various tree species in schools like Sunyani Senior High School. This initiative coincides with the government’s Tree for Life (T4L) celebration.

Last year, they also checked on trees they had planted at the Fiapre Kyem Amponsah SHS. “The goal was to see how the trees were growing and to teach students about the importance of tree planting for our environment,” Professor Akoto explained.

The project doesn’t just stop at planting. Before the event, the team educated students about why trees matter and how to care for them. According to Professor Akoto, the Vice Chancellor of UENR encouraged the team to engage in this vital national effort to promote sustainable communities.

During the Bono Regional launch of the T4L initiative at Saint James SHS, the department also helped plant more trees. These actions align with two of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals: making cities sustainable (Goal 11) and taking climate action (Goal 13).

Goal 11 focuses on creating inclusive and resilient cities, while Goal 13 highlights the urgent need to address climate change. The team concluded their week-long activities by planting more trees on the UENR campus, reaffirming their commitment to environmental sustainability.

Mrs. Opuni Frimpong, who led the tree-planting efforts, discussed the essential role trees play in urban settings. She emphasized how trees contribute to a healthy ecosystem, providing oxygen and absorbing harmful gases. They also offer timber, medicines, and various other resources. It’s clear that trees are vital in mitigating climate change effects and supporting life in many forms.

As governments and organizations ramp up climate initiatives, tree planting is gaining traction worldwide. A recent survey found that over 80% of people believe planting more trees can significantly reduce climate change impacts. Social media is buzzing with hashtags like #TreeForLife and #UrbanForests, showing a growing movement towards environmental action.

In this journey towards a greener future, every tree planted is a step in the right direction. The youth’s involvement is crucial, as they will lead the charge for a more sustainable world.

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