International & Nigerian Bodies Working for Conservation of Natural Resources | Biology for JAMB PDF Download

Introduction

Conservation of natural resources is a vital aspect of environmental sustainability, and international and national health agencies play significant roles in promoting and protecting these resources. This note aims to assess the roles and functions of key organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations International Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF), International Red Cross Society (IRCS), and ministries of health and environment in resource conservation. Additionally, it will identify the bodies responsible for conservation activities at the national and international levels and discuss their specific activities, based on the JAMB Biology syllabus.

International Health Agencies

World Health Organization (WHO)

• Role: WHO serves as a global authority on health issues and contributes to the conservation of natural resources through various initiatives.
• Functions:
  • Collaborating with member states to develop and implement sustainable health policies and strategies.
  • Promoting environmental health by addressing pollution, climate change, and hazardous substances.
  • Supporting research and knowledge exchange on the impact of environmental factors on public health.
  • Advocating for sustainable practices in healthcare facilities, such as waste management and energy efficiency.

United Nations International Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF)

• Role: UNICEF focuses on protecting the rights and well-being of children, including their right to a safe and sustainable environment.
• Functions:
  • Promoting access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities to ensure the sustainable use of water resources.
  • Advocating for the integration of environmental education in schools to foster environmental awareness and conservation.
  • Supporting countries in implementing climate-resilient policies to mitigate the impact of environmental degradation on children's health.

International Red Cross Society (IRCS)

• Role: IRCS plays a crucial role in emergency response and humanitarian assistance, including addressing environmental challenges.
• Functions:
  • Providing support during natural disasters and emergencies caused by environmental factors.
  • Promoting disaster preparedness and resilience through education and community-based programs.
  • Collaborating with other organizations to address the health impacts of environmental crises, such as climate-related diseases and pollution-related health risks.

National Bodies Responsible for Conservation

Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF)

• Role: NCF is a prominent national organization in Nigeria dedicated to nature conservation and sustainable development.
• Activities:
  • Preserving and managing protected areas, wildlife reserves, and biodiversity hotspots.
  • Promoting environmental education and awareness campaigns to engage local communities in conservation efforts.
  • Advocating for policy reforms and sustainable practices to safeguard natural resources.

Federal Ministry of Environment (Nigeria)

• Role: The Federal Ministry of Environment in Nigeria is responsible for formulating and implementing environmental policies and programs.
• Activities:
  • Developing and enforcing regulations for natural resource management and environmental conservation.
  • Monitoring and assessing environmental impacts, including pollution control and waste management.
  • Collaborating with international organizations and stakeholders to address environmental challenges.

Nigeria National Parks

• Role: Nigeria National Parks is responsible for the management and conservation of the country's national parks and protected areas.
• Activities
  • Protecting and preserving biodiversity and ecosystems within national parks.
  • Conducting research and monitoring to ensure sustainable resource use and conservation.
  • Promoting ecotourism and community engagement to foster support for conservation efforts.

Conclusion

International and national health agencies, along with dedicated conservation bodies, play crucial roles in promoting the conservation of natural resources. Through their functions and activities, these organizations contribute to sustainable development, environmental protection, and the well-being of communities.