Western Nzema Youth Urge Action Against Rising Air Pollution

The Western Nzema Youth League (WNYL), an advocacy group for the local youth, has voiced serious concerns about the harmful effects of air pollution on public health, agriculture, and overall quality of life.

The group is particularly alarmed by the rising air pollution and trapped heat in Ghana’s Western Nzema area, which they attribute to the venting of methane and isopentane gas by the Ghana National Gas Company.

They are urging immediate action, including installing air quality monitoring devices to measure and reduce pollution levels.

Methane, a powerful greenhouse gas, contributes significantly to climate change. Dr. Patrick Ekye Kwesie, a petroleum management expert and Western Nzema youth leader, explains that methane is released during natural gas extraction and processing, with venting occurring when the gas is discharged into the atmosphere without being captured. In Western Nzema, Ghana Gas vents methane and isopentane as part of its operations, raising fears of health hazards and environmental damage.

Dr. Kwesie and the WNYL have criticized Ghana Gas for its lack of transparency and accountability in managing methane and isopentane emissions. The group insists that the company has a duty to protect the health and environment of the communities it serves.

Residents have reported a rise in respiratory problems, skin irritations, and other health issues, which they link to increased air pollution and the neglect of carbon offset projects. Air pollution is known to cause various health problems, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and neurological disorders.

Vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly, are particularly at risk. The WNYL has noted a disturbing rise in hospital visits for respiratory conditions, blaming the area’s worsening air quality.

Beyond health concerns, air pollution threatens agriculture in Western Nzema, which boasts a rich farming tradition. The youth league fears that continued pollution could harm crops, reduce yields, and threaten food security, while also making local water bodies acidic.

In response to these concerns, the WNYL is pushing for the installation of air quality monitoring devices in the hydrocarbon-producing areas. These devices would offer real-time data on pollution levels, helping the community grasp the severity of the issue and take action. The WNYL believes that accurate air quality data is essential for raising public awareness and holding Ghana Gas accountable for its environmental practices.

The youth league has called for collaboration between local authorities, environmental organizations, and Ghana Gas to establish an air quality monitoring system. They propose setting up a network of monitoring stations across Nzema to track pollution levels, pinpoint hotspots, and develop targeted strategies to combat pollution.

Community engagement is vital in tackling air pollution. The WNYL has launched awareness campaigns to educate locals about the health risks and the need for cleaner air. Through workshops, meetings, and social media, they are mobilizing support for their cause.

Additionally, the WNYL encourages residents to report gas venting and environmental violations to the authorities. By promoting environmental stewardship, the group hopes to empower the community to protect its health and environment actively.

As a major player in the region’s energy sector, Ghana National Gas Company has a critical role in addressing these concerns. The company must prioritize environmental sustainability by investing in technologies that reduce methane and isopentane emissions. This includes capturing and utilizing methane instead of venting it into the atmosphere.

Ghana Gas must also engage openly with the local community, providing transparency about its operations and its efforts to minimize environmental harm. By fostering a cooperative relationship, the company can build trust and demonstrate its commitment to corporate social responsibility.

The WNYL’s call for air quality monitoring devices is a crucial step toward addressing the health and environmental impacts of methane and isopentane venting. With collaboration between the government, Ghana Gas, environmental groups, and the community, there is hope for a cleaner, healthier future for Western Nzema.