A university lecturer, Professor Ifedayo Oguntimehin of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, Ondo State, has called for stricter enforcement of environmental laws and policies to address growing concerns over pollution and its impact on health, ecosystems, and economic development.
Oguntimehin made the appeal on Tuesday while delivering the 10th inaugural lecture of the institution, titled “The Nexus of Pollutants’ Dynamics: From the Plume to the Pulse.” He described environmental pollution as a global challenge affecting air, water, soil, and food systems, with widespread implications for both human and ecological health.
He noted that pollutants originate from various sources and exist in different forms, including air, water, soil, and emerging contaminants. According to him, some modern pollutants such as nanoparticles from industrial and consumer products, as well as long-lasting chemical compounds, present additional challenges due to their persistence and ability to accumulate in living organisms.
The lecturer explained that while not all contaminants are harmful, substances become pollutants when they reach levels that negatively affect living organisms and natural processes. He emphasized the importance of understanding pollutant sources and behavior in order to develop effective environmental protection strategies.
Oguntimehin, who also serves as Director of the Centre for Research, Innovation and Development at OAUSTECH, urged governments to increase funding for environmental research and strengthen the capacity of environmental protection agencies. He also called for improved monitoring systems, public awareness campaigns, and stronger reporting mechanisms to address environmental violations.
He recommended the promotion of circular economy practices focused on reuse and waste reduction, as well as the identification of locally relevant biological indicators for environmental monitoring. He further suggested establishing designated areas for industrial activities such as auto-mechanic operations to reduce soil contamination risks.
Additional recommendations included reducing industrial emissions, expanding tree-planting initiatives using pollution-resistant species, protecting watershed areas, and improving agricultural practices through environmentally focused interventions. He also highlighted the importance of partnerships between government, industry, and academic institutions, as well as international cooperation for technology transfer and environmental management.
Oguntimehin further emphasized the need for public education on proper waste management, including waste sorting at source and discouraging indiscriminate disposal of waste into waterways, particularly to encourage responsible environmental behavior among younger generations.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of OAUSTECH, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, commended the lecture and described it as impactful. He noted that government support for the institution has contributed to academic development and research activities, while also calling for increased funding for tertiary education to further strengthen teaching and research outcomes.
The lecture was attended by academics, industry representatives, students, staff, and members of the public.
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