Lagos – Dr Lawal Wakeel, a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at the National Orthopedic Hospital in Lagos, on Tuesday urged people to always plant trees around their houses for their many benefits.
Wakeel told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that trees have their economic, social and health benefits to human existence and the society at large.
He said that from trees, people can harvest fruits and sell in order to make money, thus providing income.
“Small business opportunities in green waste management and landscaping arise when cities value mulching and its water-saving qualities.
“Vocational training for youth interested in green jobs is also a great way to develop economic opportunities from trees, “ Wakeel said.
He said that trees could also be used to reduce skin cancer because it provides shield for human being from ultra-violet rays.[pro_ad_display_adzone id=”70560″]
“Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Trees reduce UV-B exposure by about 50 per cent.
“Thus, trees provide protection for human beings at homes, on the streets, in school campuses and playgrounds, where they spend hours, “ he said.
Wakeel added that trees also help to combat climate change.
He said that excess carbon dioxide (CO2) caused by many factors build up in our atmosphere and contribute to climate change.
“Trees absorb CO2, remove and store the carbon while they release the oxygen back into the air.
“In one year, an acre of matured trees absorbs millions of CO2 released by smoky cars, “ he told NAN.
The medical expert urged the three tiers of government to encourage planting of trees across the country to combat all forms of air borne diseases. (NAN)