LEClimate research will only achieve its true purpose when it translates into policies, solutions and measurable improvements in people’s lives, according to WASCAL Executive Director Prof. Emmanuel Wendsongre Ramde.
Speaking during WASCAL’s World Environment Day celebration in Accra, Prof. Ramde said the growing climate crisis demands practical implementation rather than continued discussion.
“Our goal is clear: to transform climate research into practical, scalable and inclusive solutions that respond to the needs of communities,” he said.
According to the WASCAL Director, West Africa is already experiencing the consequences of climate change through floods, droughts, ecosystem degradation, declining agricultural productivity and threats to livelihoods.
He stressed that scientific research must be connected to policy implementation and community action if countries are to build climate resilience.
“Science gives us evidence. Diplomacy builds bridges. The media amplifies awareness. Communities give action meaning. And young people bring the urgency, creativity and courage needed to shape a resilient future.”
Prof. Ramde explained that WASCAL’s Climate Change Action Now (CCAN) initiative was designed to bridge the gap between research and implementation.
The initiative seeks to bring together policymakers, scientists, development partners and communities to ensure climate knowledge directly informs action on the ground.
He further urged stronger cooperation across sectors, noting that no single institution could solve the climate crisis alone.
“As we celebrate World Environment Day, let us remember that the future we seek will not be built by one institution, one country or one generation alone,” he said.
“It will require cooperation, innovation, trust and sustained commitment.”
Source: www..thenewsroomafrica.com