Patience Robinson, Kaduna
As the world marks World Environment Day 2026, the Bridge That Gap Initiative (BGT) has issued a call to action, urging stakeholders to move beyond climate talks and commit to concrete, long-term investments in nature-based solutions to combat the escalating climate crisis.
In a statement issued by the Founder and Executive Director of BTG, Gloria Kasang Bulus, to commemorate this year’s theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” she observed that nature is not only the foundation of life but also a partner in addressing climate crisis and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.
According to her, the Day calls for Citizens to reflect on their relationship with nature and renew commitments to protecting the environment that sustains everyone.
Across Nigeria and beyond, she observed that communities are experiencing the devastating impacts of climate change which are particularly severe for women, children, and vulnerable populations whose lives are closely connected to natural resources.
“Rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, flooding, droughts, desertification, and biodiversity loss are increasingly threatening livelihoods, food systems, public health, and economic development.”
Despite these challenges, Gloria opined that, nature continues to offer solutions.
“Our forests absorb carbon, regulate rainfall, and protect biodiversity. Our wetlands reduce flooding and support livelihoods.
“Healthy soils sustain agriculture and food security. Trees cool our communities and restore degraded landscapes.
“When we protect and restore nature, we strengthen our ability to adapt to climate change while creating opportunities for sustainable development.”
Nature-based solutions are actions that protect, restore, or manage ecosystems to address societal challenges.
These solutions serve as a shield against climate-induced disasters while providing economic and social support for vulnerable communities.
As an organization dedicated to climate advocacy, women’s empowerment, and community development, BTG acknowledges the transformative power of nature-based solutions.
“We see women now embrace clean energy technologies that reduce pressure on forests while improving household incomes-and young people lead environmental restoration efforts in their communities; while local knowledge and community actions contribute meaningfully to climate resilience and environmental sustainability.
“These experiences have reinforced our conviction that the fight against climate change cannot be separated from the protection of our natural environment. We remain committed to advancing climate action that is inclusive, community-driven, and rooted in environmental stewardship.”
Through its programmes, the NGO has continued to demonstrate that empowering women and communities with sustainable solutions can simultaneously improve livelihoods, strengthen resilience, conserve biodiversity, and contribute to climate action.
These efforts show that investing in people and investing in nature are complementary pathways toward a more sustainable future.
BTG Initiative extended the call to every level of society with a clear roadmap for stakeholders, and a demand that climate policies prioritize the voices of those most affected by environmental degradation.
Other key demands include: support for local leaders especially women and youths engaged in with resources and training, and strengthening environmental education so that individual actions like tree planting and responsible waste management can become a national culture.
“As we commemorate World Environment Day 2026, let us draw inspiration from nature itself—its resilience, its ability to regenerate, and its capacity to sustain life. Let us work together for our climate and for our shared future.
“The responsibility belongs to all of us, and the time to act is now. Use resources responsibly. Support sustainable practices. Small actions, when multiplied across communities, create lasting change.
“The future we desire depends on the choices we make today.
“If we allow nature to thrive, nature will continue to sustain and protect us. If we invest in climate action today, we create safer, healthier, and more prosperous communities tomorrow” she stated.
