The Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO) has embarked on a major climate change awareness campaign in Koforidua, educating residents on environmental protection and disaster risk reduction as part of activities marking Ghana’s Independence Day of Ghana.
The youth-led environmental advocacy group took to the streets, marketplaces, lorry stations, and other public spaces across the city to engage residents on the growing risks of climate change and the need for sustainable environmental practices.
During the outreach programme, members of GAYO educated the public on a range of issues including disaster risk reduction, the dangers of open waste burning, environmental health, sustainable agriculture, and the promotion of renewable energy as part of efforts to protect the environment in the Eastern Region.
The campaign also extended to key stakeholders who gathered at the Ascension Hall in Koforidua, where participants were sensitized on the importance of collective action in addressing climate change and environmental degradation.
Speaking during the campaign, George Tutu-Yeboah, Zero Waste Project Coordinator for GAYO in the Eastern Region, emphasized the need for sustainable waste management practices, particularly the urgent need to stop open burning of refuse.
According to him, open burning releases large amounts of carbon emissions into the atmosphere, contributing significantly to climate change and posing serious health risks to communities.
He urged residents to adopt environmentally friendly waste disposal methods, noting that individual actions play a crucial role in protecting the environment.
“Climate change is a global challenge, but the solutions begin at the local level. When communities stop harmful practices such as open burning and adopt responsible waste management, we take a major step toward protecting our environment,” he stated.
Mr. Tutu-Yeboah further explained that GAYO’s activities are part of broader efforts to encourage sustainable living and environmental responsibility among young people and communities.
Founded in 2014, the Green Africa Youth Organization seeks to inspire individuals and communities to live in harmony with nature by promoting sustainable lifestyles and environmental stewardship.
The organization envisions a world where people coexist responsibly with natural ecosystems, ensuring that environmental resources are protected and managed sustainably for both present and future generations.
Through campaigns like the Koforidua climate awareness outreach, GAYO hopes to empower citizens with knowledge and practical solutions that can help mitigate climate change while improving community well-being.
Source: Mybrytfmonline.com/Nhyiraba Solomon Nartey
