Environmental scientist Prof. Chris Gordon has advocated for more stringent regulations on animals in urban environments, asserting that such measures are essential to the success of tree-planting initiatives aimed at tackling flooding in the nation.
Speaking in an interview, Prof. Gordon stressed the critical role of ongoing tree-planting efforts as a component of comprehensive strategies to alleviate flooding.
He referenced instances of countries that have effectively engaged citizens in planting and caring for millions of trees, suggesting that Ghana could achieve comparable outcomes through coordinated efforts.
However, Prof. Gordon voiced his concerns regarding the damage inflicted on newly planted trees by animals that roam freely within urban areas and communities.
“I have complained several times about the tree-planting exercises, and we don’t control the animals we have in the city. You plant trees, and someone’s cow or animal will come and chew the leaves off,” he stated.
He pointed out that tree-planting initiatives cannot thrive in isolation and necessitate collaboration among various stakeholders, including local authorities, residents, and livestock owners.
“It cannot be looked at in silos. Everybody needs to work together if this is going to have an impact,” he added.
Prof. Gordon’s comments are part of ongoing dialogues regarding the strategies required to combat flooding, environmental degradation, and climate-related issues in urban settings.
