The Association of Professional Women Engineers in Nigeria (APWEN) convened a distinguished audience at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Lekki, for the annual Engr. Olutumbi Joanna Maduka Lecture. This year’s theme, “Sustainable Technology and Energy Solutions to Climate Change: Building a Resilient Future,” addressed a critical challenge facing our planet.
Climate Change: A Looming Threat
The keynote address, delivered by Engr. Prof. Christiana Ijagbemi, FNSE, painted a stark picture of climate change’s far-reaching consequences. Professor Ijagbemi explained how the accumulation of greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide, disrupts natural atmospheric processes, leading to global warming.
This warming translates to a cascade of effects, including shifting weather patterns, rising sea levels, and more frequent and severe extreme weather events. These disruptions threaten ecosystems, economies, and communities worldwide.
Sustainable Technology: A Beacon of Hope
Professor Ijagbemi offered a beacon of hope, highlighting the transformative potential of sustainable technology. Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power were presented as clean alternatives to fossil fuels, offering the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions and dependence on finite resources.
She explored advancements in energy-efficient building design and construction, along with the growing adoption of electric vehicles and clean energy-powered public transportation systems. These advancements, Professor Ijagbemi argued, can significantly reduce emissions from the transportation sector. Additionally, she discussed the role of sustainable agriculture practices, such as organic farming and agroforestry, in promoting soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation while reducing the carbon footprint of food production.
Challenges and Opportunities: A Delicate Balance
Professor Ijagbemi acknowledged the challenges hindering the widespread adoption of sustainable technology. High upfront costs, limited access to financing, and technological limitations can be particularly obstructive in developing countries. Additionally, entrenched interests in traditional energy sectors and cumbersome regulations can slow progress towards a renewable energy future. However, Professor Ijagbemi emphasized that overcoming these challenges presents significant economic opportunities. Investing in sustainable technology can stimulate innovation, create new green jobs, and foster economic growth while mitigating environmental risks and enhancing resilience to the impacts of climate change.
Global Success Stories: Paving the Way
Professor Ijagbemi provided inspiring examples of how sustainable technology is making a difference around the world. Denmark’s remarkable achievement in generating over 40% of its electricity from wind power served as a powerful testament to the feasibility and scalability of renewable energy. Curitiba, Brazil’s comprehensive public transportation system, offered a compelling case study in reducing traffic congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Costa Rica’s ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality showcased the potential of leveraging abundant renewable resources to generate clean energy. These success stories underscored the transformative potential of sustainable technology in tackling climate change and building resilient communities.
Policy and Regulation: Setting the Stage for Action
Professor Ijagbemi emphasized the critical role of government policies and regulations in shaping the adoption and deployment of sustainable technology. She discussed how subsidies, tax incentives, and renewable energy mandates can stimulate investment and innovation in clean energy technologies. Carbon pricing mechanisms, such as cap-and-trade systems and carbon taxes, were presented as tools to internalize the environmental costs of carbon emissions and incentivize polluters to reduce emissions. International agreements like the Paris Agreement were highlighted for providing a framework for global cooperation on climate change by setting emission reduction targets and fostering collective action.
Community Engagement: Empowering Change
Professor Ijagbemi stressed that empowering communities and fostering public awareness are essential for a successful transition to a sustainable future. Educational campaigns, outreach programs, and experiential learning opportunities were identified as crucial tools to raise awareness about climate change impacts and solutions. Professor Ijagbemi acknowledged the critical role of grassroots movements led by activists, youth groups, and local organizations. These groups advocate for climate action and hold policymakers and businesses accountable for their environmental impact.
In conclusion, she said that “we can transition to a low-carbon economy, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and build thriving, sustainable communities for generations to come.” and ended with a rallying call, “Let us seize this opportunity to shape a better world for ourselves and future generations.”
Prominent attendees included:
- Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE, President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) – Chairman of the Occasion
- Engr. Dr. Adebisi R. Osim, FNSE, FNICE, FIMC, President of APWEN – Host
- Engr. Olutumbi Joanna Maduka, FNSE, FAEng., FNIEEE, MFR – Honoree
- Dame Marie Fatayi-Williams, FNIPR – Special Guest of Honour
- Engr. Rose Madaki, FNSE, Chairman, Organizing Committee and NSE VP Membership Service Board
- Members of APWEN and other esteemed guests
Female engineers urged to Play leading role in combating climate change