West Africa is very vocal about tackling heatwaves and climate change, but it’s an ongoing challenge. The region experienced a severe heatwave this February with temperatures soaring above 40°C, making it ten times more likely due to human-caused climate change.
To address this issue, National Meteorological Agencies in countries like Nigeria and Ghana have started issuing warnings and advisories to prepare people for extreme temperatures. For instance, during the Africa Cup of Nations football tournament in Côte d’Ivoire, two-minute cooling breaks were introduced to help players rehydrate.
Urban Planning and Infrastructure are also being improved to mitigate the effects of heatwaves. However, rapid urbanisation and inadequate access to essential services like water, sanitation, and healthcare exacerbate the risks associated with extreme heat.
Climate Change Research and Awareness are crucial in addressing the root causes of heatwaves. Scientists are working together to study the impacts of climate change on West Africa, and there’s a growing need for more research and awareness campaigns.
Without International Cooperation and Funding, West Africa’s climate change adaptation efforts may be weak. The UN estimates that developing countries require $215-$387 billion per year to build resilience to climate-related disasters.
Notably too, urbanisation is significantly exacerbating heat in Lagos and Accra, primarily due to the urban heat island effect. This phenomenon occurs when built-up areas absorb and retain heat, causing temperatures to rise higher than in surrounding rural areas.
In Lagos, the rapid urbanization and population growth have led to an increase in impervious surfaces, such as asphalt and concrete, which absorb and retain heat. This, combined with the city’s dense population and inadequate green spaces, has resulted in higher temperatures and heat-related illnesses.
Similarly, in Accra, the central business district’s compactness and lack of greenery have contributed to the urban heat island effect. Studies have shown that areas with large expanses of hardscapes and reduced greenery experience higher temperatures.
The effects of urbanisation on heat in these cities are further compounded by climate change. Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are expected to increase the frequency and severity of heatwaves in West Africa.
To mitigate these effects, cities can implement strategies such as increasing green spaces, using heat-reducing materials, and improving urban planning to reduce the urban heat island effect.
Here are some practical ways to create green spaces in your homes and offices:
1. Window Boxes: Attach planters to your window sills to grow herbs, succulents, or flowers.
- Vertical Gardens: Use a trellis or a wall-mounted planter to create a lush, space-saving garden.
- Indoor Pots: Choose low-maintenance plants like snake plants, spider plants, or peace lilies.
- Hanging Baskets: Suspend planters from ceilings or hooks to add a touch of greenery.
- Green Roofs: If possible, consider installing a green roof or a rooftop garden.
Offices
- Desk Plants: Encourage employees to keep small plants on their desks.
- Office Green Walls: Install a living wall or a green screen to purify the air and boost morale.
- Break Room Gardens: Create a small garden or a peaceful oasis in the break room.
- Outdoor Spaces: If possible, create an outdoor garden or a patio area for employees to relax.
- Air-Purifying Plants: Use plants like air plants, bamboo palms, or Dracaena to purify the air and improve indoor air quality.
Shared Spaces
- Community Gardens: Create a shared garden space for residents or employees to maintain and enjoy.
- Green Courtyards: Design a central courtyard with plants, seating areas, and natural light.
- Roof Gardens: Develop a rooftop garden or a green roof with seating areas, walkways, and stunning views.
Tips and Considerations
- Choose Low-Maintenance Plants: Select plants that are easy to care for and can thrive in indoor or outdoor conditions.
- Consider Lighting: Ensure that your plants receive sufficient natural light or invest in growing lights.
- Water Wisely: Water your plants efficiently to avoid waste and prevent overwatering.
- Involve Others: Encourage colleagues, family members, or neighbours to participate in maintaining and enjoying the green space.
- Monitor and Adapt: Observe your plants’ responses to their environment and make adjustments as needed.
