The term Mother Earth is used because it reflects the interdependence that exists among human beings, other living species and the planet we all inhabit., this year’s Mother Earth Day, which coincides with the Super Year of Biodiversity, is focused on its role as an indicator of the earth’s health. There is a growing concern about the health consequences of biodiversity’s loss and change.
A scientist, who specialises on climate change, environment and human health with World Health Organization , Arthur Wyns, in this interview with PREMIUM TIMES, explains how biodiversity can be managed during this COVID-19 period. Mr Wyns answers these questions on a personal capacity, not on behalf of WHO.There is no direct connection between climate change and either the emergence or the transmission of the COVID-19 disease.
This is because it undermines the environmental conditions we need for good health—access to water, clean air, food and shelter—and places additional stress on the health system.Nigeria is already being hit hard by climate change through rising temperatures and lowered rainfall, says the Nigeria Meteorological Agency .
Human disturbance of ecosystems – such as deforestation or urbanisation – are therefore, strongly linked to an increased occurrence and risk of diseases spread by animals. We are placing too many pressures on the natural world, with damaging consequences such as amplifying the risk of disease. Examples include large-scale deforestation, agricultural and livestock intensification, intensive resource extraction, illegal hunting and trade of wildlife, the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, and anthropogenic climate change, among others.
We can only hope the COVID-19 pandemic will be a wake-up call for global solidarity, and for increased support in strengthening primary health care systems across the continent.