Environmental Sustainability Key to Future Prosperity, Says APLORI on World Environment Day
By Marie-Therese Nanlong
As the world marks World Environment Day 2026 on June 5, the A. P. Leventis Ornithological Research Institute (APLORI), a Centre of Excellence at the University of Jos, has called for stronger action toward environmental sustainability.
APLORI emphasized that the environment remains critical to human development, food security, economic growth, and social stability, stressing the need for more decisive measures to address environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, and climate change.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by the Institute’s Communications Officer, Nanlep Kumle, APLORI warned that rising temperatures, habitat destruction, pollution, flooding, drought, and declining biodiversity continue to pose serious threats to ecosystems and livelihoods across the world.
The Institute noted that this year’s World Environment Day theme, “Restore Our Earth, Embrace Our Future,” underscores the urgent need to restore degraded ecosystems and strengthen environmental resilience.
According to the statement, the Director of APLORI, Professor Adams Chaskda, urged governments, businesses, communities, and individuals to intensify efforts toward environmental protection through stronger policies, sustainable practices, investments in renewable energy, environmental education, and conservation initiatives.
The Institute stressed that decisions made today will determine the quality of life available to future generations.
According to the statement:
“Environmental sustainability is closely linked to human development, food security, economic growth, and social stability.
“The choices we make now will shape the future we leave behind. Collective action is essential if we are to protect our environment and build a more sustainable future.”
APLORI further stated that protecting forests, wetlands, grasslands, and other natural habitats is vital for climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and human well-being.
The Institute also reaffirmed its commitment to environmental research, conservation, and capacity development across Africa. It noted that APLORI has continued to contribute to scientific knowledge on birds, wildlife, ecosystems, and habitat management, while training conservation professionals who support sustainable development efforts across the continent.
The Institute called on stakeholders to work together to restore nature, protect biodiversity, and build a climate-resilient future.
“Restoring ecosystems and safeguarding biodiversity require the commitment of governments, organisations, and citizens alike. Together, we can secure a healthier planet for future generations,” the statement added.
