Experts have raised concerns about the adverse socio-economic consequences Africa may face if sustainable resource management is not prioritised.
This call for action was made known in a recent webinar organised by the African Development Bank, with emphasis on the urgent need for the continent to reevaluate how it manages its natural resources. It comes in anticipation of the 2023 United Nations Conference on Climate Change, also known as COP28, scheduled for November 30 to December 12 in Dubai.
As the world evaluates progress on the Paris Agreement, experts stress the importance of sustainable natural resource management in Africa to reduce environmental degradation and adapt to climate change.
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Global Collaboration Needed for Sustainable Resource Management
The African Development Bank hosted the webinar in collaboration with the International Resource Panel and the World Resource Forum Secretariat. Participants engaged in discussions about the challenges and best practices related to valuing natural resources. Merlyn Van Voore, Head of the International Resource Panel Secretariat, highlighted the world’s struggle to develop appropriate tools and frameworks for sustainable resource management. She underscored the interconnectedness between resource management, climate action, and sustainable development, emphasising that sustainable resource management is essential.
Addressing E-Waste and Sustainable Practices
Van Voore pointed out the need for comprehensive approaches, particularly in sectors like electronics manufacturing. She noted that managing end-of-life electronic products, such as mobile phones, involves multiple stakeholders, including manufacturers, extractive industry workers, end-users, and network providers. The management of e-waste is crucial for sustainable practices and environmental protection.
The Value of Natural Resources in Africa
Dr. Vanessa Ushie, Acting Director of the African Development Bank’s African Natural Resource Management and Investment Center, discussed the critical role of natural resources in the continent. She referred to the Africa Economic Outlook 2023 report, which reveals that natural resources, including renewables and ecosystem services, contribute to approximately 62% of Africa’s GDP. Ushie emphasised that natural resources offer not only economic value but also ecological, biophysical, and environmental value. She stressed that fully appreciating the services provided by nature is essential to recognizing the true value of natural capital.
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Elevating Sustainable Resource Management Worldwide
Dr. Hans Bruyninckx, a former executive director of the European Environment Agency, called for the elevation of sustainable resource management, not only in the tropical continent but also in global economies. He highlighted the global significance of sustainable resource management, given the unequal distribution of costs and benefits associated with current practices, particularly in the African context.
Historically, Africa has been a major exporter of resources, but often in an unsustainable manner. Bruyninckx stressed that going forward, sub-Saharan continent is poised to play a crucial role in global energy transitions and information technology. Her contribution will extend to providing smart solutions for the world and, even more significantly, to advancing social development and improving the well-being of its people.
The insights shared during the webinar underscore the urgency of implementing sustainable resource management practices in Africa and the broader global context. As the continent prepares to play a pivotal role in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development, effective management of natural resources is a critical step toward ensuring a better future for both the continent and the world.