The Clean Air Forum Lagos 2024 has entered its second day at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, with Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, General Manager of Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, LASEPA, with senior management staff of the agency in attendance.
The 5-day event, organized by #AirQo, Makerere University; AQMRG, University of Lagos, and LASEPA has brought together a diverse group of over 300 air quality stakeholders from 40 cities across 40 countries to tackle the pressing issue of air pollution in Africa.
As the forum progresses, academia and policymakers have taken the stage to deliver presentations, highlighting innovative solutions to combat air pollution in Africa. The presentations have covered a range of topics, including the use of technology in air quality management, sustainable transportation solutions, and community-led initiatives to reduce air pollution.
One key focus emerging from the presentations is the importance of leveraging technology to address air pollution. Several speakers have highlighted the potentials of technologies such as sensor networks, data analytics, and artificial intelligence to monitor and manage air quality in real-time. For example, one presentation showcased a low-cost sensor network developed by a local University that can provide real-time air quality data to citizens.
Another focus that has emerged is the need for sustainable transportation solutions. Several speakers have emphasized the importance of promoting cleaner fuels, improving public transportation. One presentation highlighted a successful pilot project that introduced electric buses,CNG buses into a city’s public transportation system, resulting in significant reductions in air pollution.
Community-led initiatives have also been a focus of the presentations today. Several speakers have highlighted the importance of engaging with local communities to raise awareness about air pollution and involve them in solution-finding.
One presentation showcased a community-led initiative that established a network of air quality monitoring stations in a densely populated neighborhood, providing citizens with real-time data on air quality.
The plenary session provided a platform for participants to engage in meaningful discussions and share best practices in addressing air pollution. Participants have shared their experiences and insights, and discussed potential solutions to common challenges.
The session has also featured a panel discussion with policymakers and experts, who have shared their perspectives on the policy and regulatory frameworks needed to support clean air actions in African cities.
The Clean Air Forum is aimed at promoting knowledge sharing, collaborations, and partnerships to address air pollution in African cities.
The forum recognizes that air pollution is a complex issue that requires a multi-stakeholders approach, and seeks to bring together diverse stakeholders to share knowledge, expertise, and best practices so as to improve the health and well-being of the people of Africa.
Kindly like, share and leave your comments.
