By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Plants are among the most important living organisms on Earth, yet they are often undervalued, according to a statement shared with journalists by the Head of Communication and Strategies of African Climate Reporters, a science and environment journalism organisation.
The statement, issued on Thursday in Kaduna, noted that plants provide oxygen, food, medicine, and shelter for humans and animals alike, stressing that without plants, “life on Earth would not exist as we know it.”
It warned that many plant species are currently facing serious threats due to human activities such as deforestation, urbanisation, overgrazing, pollution, and climate change.
“According to a United Nations report, about one million plant and animal species are at risk of extinction worldwide.
“This alarming figure highlights the urgent need for global action to protect biodiversity. The loss of plant species is particularly dangerous because plants form the foundation of most ecosystems,” the statement said.
It explained that protecting plants from extinction is essential for maintaining ecological balance, as plants help regulate the climate by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
The statement also noted that plants help prevent soil erosion, support water conservation, and provide habitats for countless animal species.
“When plant species disappear, entire ecosystems are disrupted, leading to long-term environmental consequences,” it added.
The organisation further observed that many indigenous trees are facing extinction due to a combination of human and environmental factors.
It identified large-scale deforestation for farming, construction, and fuel as major contributors to the destruction of natural forest areas where indigenous trees once thrived.
According to the statement, uncontrolled logging and illegal timber harvesting have also accelerated the loss of native tree species in many regions.
Climate change was identified as another major factor, with rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns affecting the growth and survival of many indigenous trees.
The statement added that rapid urban expansion continues to replace natural habitats with buildings and infrastructure, leaving little space for trees to regenerate naturally.
“Overgrazing by livestock and bush burning further damage young plants, preventing forests from naturally renewing themselves,” it stated.
It warned that the disappearance of indigenous tree species threatens biodiversity, ecosystems, and the livelihoods of communities that depend on them.
The statement further highlighted the importance of plants in medicine, noting that many modern drugs are derived from plant sources.
“The extinction of plant species could mean the loss of potential cures for diseases that may affect humanity in the future. This makes plant conservation not only an environmental concern but also a matter of public health and survival,” it said.
The organisation urged governments to enforce strict environmental laws, support reforestation programmes, and discourage deforestation.
It also called for increased public awareness on the importance of tree planting and environmental preservation.
“To effectively protect plants from extinction, there should be stronger environmental policies and strict enforcement against illegal logging and land degradation.
“Reforestation and afforestation programmes should be expanded across both rural and urban areas to restore lost vegetation.
“Environmental education should also be introduced in schools to teach young people the importance of plant conservation,” the statement added.
It further encouraged communities to adopt sustainable farming practices that do not destroy natural habitats, while urging international organisations and governments to increase funding for biodiversity conservation projects and research.
The organisation also called on individuals to take responsibility by planting trees, protecting green spaces, and reducing activities that harm the environment.
According to the statement, plants are vital to life on Earth, and their protection should be treated as a global priority.
“Safeguarding plant life today ensures a healthier, more stable, and sustainable future for generations to come,” it concluded.
