As 2030 nears, only 17% of sustainable development goals have been achieved, primarily due to climate change impacts, particularly in the global south. Deforestation, primarily driven by those in power, continues to threaten communities and education in Liberia, perpetuating cycles of poverty and violence. Effective change requires a commitment to responsible governance and sound scientific practices to promote justice and sustainability.
As the year 2030 approaches, a mere 17% of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) have been accomplished, prompting global experts to attribute these dismal results to climate change. They argue that adverse weather conditions are hindering the achievement of the ambitious outcomes initially set, particularly affecting approximately 95% of countries in the global south. In a critical examination, Togba-Nah Tipoteh articulates that those in power are actively engaged in deforestation practices rather than reforestation initiatives. The Secretary General of the United Nations is mobilized to convene another global assembly, ostensibly to shift responsibility for the unmet sustainable development goals onto climate change. Wealthy nations, including Saudi Arabia, are reportedly funding this façade. This sentiment is echoed in cultural reflections, such as the song “Blame It on Me” by celebrated artist Akon. However, those responsible for environmental degradation refuse to accept accountability, continually assigning blame to climate change while exacerbating the problem through ongoing deforestation. In Liberia, the repercussions of deforestation are evident; the natural habitat for elephants has vanished, causing them to invade local communities. Additionally, severe flooding has led to loss of life and injurious outcomes for many residents. Educational prospects remain grim, as students are forced to learn on bare ground, despite Liberia’s rich endowment of high-quality timber species. Such an environment complicates the prospects for meaningful education, which is essential for fostering economic growth and development. Consequently, entrenched poverty persists, creating a context in which violence may erupt in the form of coup d’états and civil unrest. According to a 2022 study by Afrobarometer, a significant percentage of Liberians believe the nation is progressing in the wrong direction. This regression is laid bare by the intensifying poverty at both local and global scales, as outlined in the works of Thomas Piketty from Harvard University Press in 2022. Addressing this escalating poverty necessitates a commitment to sound scientific principles, eschewing flawed practices. Effective scientific inquiry will enhance awareness and galvanize citizens towards utilizing the Rule of Law to reform the current electoral system, replacing it with one that is equitable and sustainable. Only through such transformative measures can individuals with commendable records ascend to positions of leadership, fostering justice – the cornerstone of peace and progress, not only in Liberia but in nations worldwide.
The article discusses the challenges faced by the global community, particularly focusing on the lack of progress towards sustainable development goals as the target year 2030 approaches. It scrutinizes the roles of powerful entities in environmental degradation and explores the implications of deforestation on communities, education, and economic development in Liberia, serving as a microcosm of broader global issues stemming from climate change and poverty.
The examination of Liberia’s situation serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of environmental health, education, and economic stability. The diversion of accountability away from those contributing to deforestation perpetuates cycles of poverty and violence, underscoring the urgent need for reform in leadership and policy. Achieving sustainable development goals hinges upon adopting sound scientific practices that advocate for justice and equitable governance.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
