Environmental sustainability must remain national priority – B&FT CEO

By Buertey Francis BORYOR

Environmental sustainability must become a national priority if the country is to safeguard its future generations, Chief Executive Officer of Business and Financial Times (B&FT), Dr. Godwin Acquaye, has said.

Speaking at the 2026 Environmental Sustainability Summit organised by the B&FT in Accra, Dr. Acquaye expressed concern that environmental issues often receive less attention and support than they deserve despite their direct impact on human survival and economic development.

He said the environment remains the foundation of life and livelihoods, stressing that the food people eat, the water they drink and the air they breathe all depend on a healthy ecosystem.

“Whatever we do and whatever our activities are, we are here because the environment supports us. Therefore, the environment matters,” he said.

Dr. Acquaye noted that environmental programmes are sometimes viewed merely as corporate social responsibility initiatives rather than critical interventions needed to protect lives, livelihoods and future economic prosperity.

According to him, human activities continue to place enormous pressure on the environment through deforestation, pollution and unsustainable resource exploitation.

He expressed particular concern about the destruction of forests, illegal mining activities and the increasing use of harmful chemicals that threaten land, water bodies and food systems.

Dr. Acquaye warned that continued degradation of the environment could have serious consequences for future generations if urgent action is not taken.

He observed that forests are being depleted at an alarming rate and cautioned that unchecked destruction of natural resources could undermine efforts to achieve sustainable development.

“The way we are destroying this gift that God has given to us is alarming,” he said.

He further highlighted the growing impact of climate change, including rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns, saying these developments underscore the need for stronger environmental protection measures.

The summit, held under the theme “Inspired by Nature. For the Climate. For Our Future,” brought together policymakers, business leaders, environmental experts and development partners to discuss solutions to the country’s environmental challenges.

Dr. Acquaye said the summit sought to move beyond discussions and focus on practical actions that can help build a greener and more sustainable future.

He stressed the need for innovative solutions, stronger partnerships, green financing mechanisms and greater public awareness to support environmental sustainability efforts.

The B&FT CEO also underscored the importance of environmental education, particularly among young people, suggesting that sustainability awareness programmes should be intensified in schools to help instill responsible environmental practices from an early age.

According to him, educating children and young people on environmental protection would help create a generation that values and protects natural resources.

He announced that B&FT would, in the coming weeks, partner with environmental advocacy group Just One Group to undertake clean-up exercises in parts of the country as part of efforts to promote environmental responsibility.

He urged individuals, businesses and institutions to play their part in protecting the environment, stressing that environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility.

“The choices we make today will determine the future we leave behind for generations to come,” he said.

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