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Defforestation and Climate Change

By: Vivian Antwiwaa Gyang




Climate change, as defined by the United Nations, refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. The fundamental cause of climate change is the greenhouse effect, which is linked to how certain atmospheric gases trap heat from the Earth in the atmosphere, leading to a warming of the air. This, however, becomes problematic when the quantity of heat and gases released into the atmosphere exceeds sustainable levels.
One significant contributor to climate change is the building and construction industry. The majority of materials used in this industry are produced using methods that have adverse effects on the environment. In many countries, including Ghana, trees are cut down to provide roofing materials for buildings.



Trees play a crucial role in safeguarding our environment from global warming. They act as natural carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide, one of the greenhouse gases responsible for global warming and climate change. However, when trees are felled for construction purposes, they release the stored carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere. The more trees that are cut down for roofing buildings, the greater the amount of carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere, and this has serious consequences for our planet. https://www.climatecouncil.org.au 



                     WAYS FORWARD


       1. Explore Sustainable Roofing Materials: 
Builders and construction companies can switch to the use of materials like steel trusses for roofing. Steel is a highly durable and recyclable material that has a lower environmental impact compared to traditional roofing materials.

              

2. Consider Bamboo as a Roofing Material:
 Bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable resource that has the ability to absorb a significant amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Utilizing bamboo for roofing not only provides an eco-friendly option but also helps in sequestering carbon. https://ugreen.io/what-is-sustainable-wood-a-guide-for-architects-engineers-and-builders/. 
By adopting these alternatives and shifting away from practices that harm our environment, the construction industry can significantly reduce its contribution to climate change. Making responsible choices in building materials and methods will not only benefit the environment but also contribute to a more sustainable and climate-resilient future for us all.


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