The Institute of Environment Practitioners of Nigeria (IEPN) has urged Nigerians to imbibe tree planting culture, to mitigate climate change. Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye, President and Chairman, Governing Council of the institute, stated this at an event to commemorate 2024 World Environment Day on Friday in Benin. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was being organised in partnership with Benin City Window on America (BCWOA) with the theme: 'Land Restoration, Desertification and Drought Resilience'. According to the UN fact sheet, over 40 per cent of planet land is being degraded affecting half of the world's population. Ezemonye said the theme of the event was to remind stakeholders on the need to collectively heal the planet. 'Since WED was celebrated in 1973, the anniversary has become a platform to raise awareness about critical environmental issues and proffer lasting and sustainable solutions,' he said. Ezemonye, who is also the Vice Chancellor, Igbinedion University, Okada, Benin , added that the 2024 WED came at a critical time when the world had triple planetary crisis such as climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution. According to him, by focusing on land restoration, we can mitigate these crises, enhance carbon storage, protect species from extinction and ensure a healthier planet for future generations. 'According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), restoring degraded land can significantly improve livelihoods, reduce poverty, and build resilience to extreme weather. 'Every dollar invested in restoration can make up to $30 in ecosystem services, making it a vital strategy for sustainable development'. Also speaking, Dr Georgina Erifetal, a Director in BCWOA, urged participants to take responsibility for the survival of their immediate environment to bring positive effects to the global habitat. The event also hosted stakeholders, who participated virtually across the globe, to proffer lasting solutions to issues affecting the planet. Source: News Agen cy of Nigeria