By Mesoma Chukwuanu
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Earthshot Prize, Hannah Jones has said tackling environmental challenges is the role of everyone in the society.
She disclosed this recently in Lagos, at an event organised by Multichoice in collaboration with the Earthshot Prize, titled, ‘Tackling Africa’s Climate Change Challenge,’ which brought together environmental innovators, enthusiasts and activists to discuss how to achieve environmental sustainability in Africa.
According to her, there’s an unprecedented urgency to address the environmental challenges threatening the planet.
“Our future, and the future of generations to come, depends on the choices we make and the actions we take now. Individuals can use their time, talents, and votes to contribute to the missions and goals of the Earthshot Prize. We need a ton of policymakers to help drive change. You have the right and the power to vote; how you use your votes helps,” Jones added.
Academy Director, West Africa for the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF), Atinuke Babatunde, highlighted the role of storytelling in tackling global environmental issues. “The Earthshot Prize exemplifies the power of human ingenuity in finding groundbreaking solutions to restore and protect our planet, and it is through innovation that we can transform challenges into opportunities.
“The MultiChoice Talent Factory embodies this spirit by nurturing creative talent who use their skills to tell powerful stories and drive positive change. The climate problem is not a one-person problem. Together, let these pioneering efforts inspire us and work tirelessly towards a sustainable and resilient future for all,” she said
Founder, International Climate Change Development Initiative (ICCDI), Olumide Idowu, also said personal responsibility is the key to solving environmental issues in Nigeria. “It is important to understand that the structure Nigeria has cannot solve the environmental problem. We need to integrate the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) plans into our collective actions. Personal responsibility is the key to solving environmental issues in Nigeria,” he said
Founder, Recycle9ja, Oyewole Talabi, said the government has a huge role to play and to a certain degree. “If the government doesn’t play that role, I’m not sure we’ll go so far. Some policies need to be put in place to drastically shift the mindset of people to help them understand that their actions have consequences”
The event highlighted the importance of the Earthshot Prize in driving positive change and explored the integration of technology and community engagement in environmental solutions. It also examined future opportunities and challenges in sustainability.
The event featured video presentations created by students of the MultiChoice Talent Factory. These included “Revive the Ocean,” which showcased Achenyo Idachaba-Obaro, Founder and CEO of Mitimeh, and Oyewole Talabi, founder of Recycle9ja. “Racing Against Time” was a mini-documentary highlighting the dangers of plastic waste, and “2070” was a short film starring Winifred Obam and Eliana Uffot.
All of these short films were filmed and produced by students of the MultiChoice Talent Factory.
