ACReSAL to roll out clean cooking innovations to combat deforestation, health risks in Kano

The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) is set to introduce sustainable cooking methods to protect the environment and improve the well-being of Kano residents.

Kano-ACReSAL Project Coordinator and Senior Special Assistant on Climate Change to the Kano State Governor, Dr Dahiru M. Hashim, disclosed this in an exclusive interview with SolaceBase in Kano.

Dr Hashim, who was a delegate at the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) on climate change, highlighted the importance of adopting clean cooking technologies to reduce the health risks faced by women who depend on firewood for cooking.

He noted that this traditional practice not only poses significant health risks but also contributes to deforestation and carbon emissions.

Read Also:SolaceBase report wins international award for investigative journalism

SolaceBase reports that COP29, held under the theme “Investing in Livelihoods for All,” took place in Baku, Azerbaijan, under the auspices of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The conference brought together global stakeholders to address the local causes and global impacts of climate change.

Dr. Hashim underscored the strategic importance of the ACReSAL project to Kano State as part of a $700 million investment facilitated by the World Bank, the Federal Government of Nigeria, and 19 northern states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The initiative aims to tackle environmental challenges while improving livelihoods.

ReadAlso:How WOFAN empowered persons with disabilities in Bauchi, Jigawa

“At COP29, we focused on sustainable innovations, such as clean cooking technologies,” Dr. Hashim said. “Many women in Kano rely on firewood for cooking, exposing themselves to carbon emissions and health risks while contributing to deforestation. By adopting clean cooking models used in developed countries, we can reduce health hazards and protect the environment.”

Dr. Hashim also stressed the need to address Kano’s energy challenges, pointing out that unreliable power supply has hindered the state’s industrial growth. He revealed that the delegation explored opportunities to attract investors to harness Kano’s abundant sunlight for solar power generation.

“Kano has abundant sunlight, and we are keen to attract investors who can help us tap into this resource. Reliable energy will not only revive industries but also support new economic opportunities,” he explained.

He further raised concerns about air quality in Kano, with some areas recording pollution levels far exceeding World Health Organization (WHO) standards. He attributed the poor air quality to factors such as deforestation, outdated vehicles, and non-compliant factories.

“We need to implement stricter environmental standards and transition to cleaner transportation systems. Mass transit solutions and stricter vehicle emission regulations have been successful in other countries, and we aim to adopt similar models,” Dr Hashim added.

Read Also:KHAIRUN: What makes our university different from others – Vice Chancellor

He also noted that Kano’s rapid urbanization and deforestation have exacerbated rising temperatures, emphasizing the need for urban planning strategies that incorporate climate resilience and green spaces.

“Urbanization is inevitable, but we need designated areas for forests and farmlands. Without these natural buffers, we will continue to experience abnormal weather patterns,” he cautioned.

Reflecting on his key takeaways from COP29, Dr Hashim highlighted the importance of collective action. “The task of building a better society requires all hands on deck—from government and policymakers to civil society and individuals,” he said.

He expressed optimism about the transformative potential of the insights gained at COP29, emphasizing that commitment and collaboration are critical to addressing Kano’s climate challenges and building a sustainable future for the state.