A recent conference highlighted the urgent need for green job creation and gender-responsive climate policies within the extractive industries. The CSR-in-Action Group emphasized the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources, particularly in light of the economic impact of extraction activities on women in host communities.
Key Takeaways
- CSR-in-Action Group calls for green job creation in extractive industries.
- Emphasis on gender-responsive climate policies.
- Need for expanded access to renewable energy sources.
- Focus on the economic impact of extraction on women.
The Conference Overview
The 13th Sustainability in the Extractive Industries (SITEI) Conference served as a platform for discussing the transformative potential of extractive industries in the green economy transition. Dr. ChiChi Aniagolu-Okoye, Regional Director of Ford Foundation West Africa, delivered a keynote address advocating for an African-centric approach to green energy.
Dr. Aniagolu-Okoye stressed that transitioning from fossil fuels to green energy is crucial, but it must be approached through an African lens. She argued that Africa’s transition should not signify the end of extraction but rather a shift that maintains autonomy and enables economic control.
The Role of Extractives in Green Growth
The theme of the conference, "Extractives for Green Growth: The Strategic Role of Extractives in the Just Transition into an Inclusive Green Economy," underscored the need for Africa to leverage its resources for long-term growth.
Bekeme Masade-Olowola, Chief Executive and Convener of SITEI, highlighted CSR-in-Action’s commitment to fostering sustainable change in Nigeria’s extractive industries. She noted that the event aimed to spotlight Africa’s unique challenges and opportunities in achieving sustainable economic development through innovation and inclusivity.
Emphasizing Interdependence and Innovation
Masade-Olowola emphasized that growth can best be achieved through interdependence and adaptive innovation. She stated, "At CSR-in-Action, we have embraced cultural humility and deep respect for all stakeholders, a necessity in the extractives sector, where host communities are significantly impacted by the just transition. This respect brings rewards not only for today but for years to come."
Panel Discussions on Energy Transition
During the panel session, experts explored Nigeria’s energy transition potential, emphasizing how local solutions could drive cleaner and more sustainable energy initiatives. The discussions focused on the importance of integrating local knowledge and practices into the broader energy transition strategy.
The conference concluded with a call to action for stakeholders in the extractive industries to prioritize sustainable practices and invest in green job creation. The CSR-in-Action Group’s advocacy for gender-responsive climate policies and renewable energy access aims to create a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.
Sources
- Sustainability group advocates green jobs in extractive industry — Appointments — The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News, The Guardian Nigeria News.
