Abstract

The use of solar energy and a lesser reliance on fossil fuels in Nigeria, which is in line with the United Nations Paris agreement will help to reduce the excessive emission of green house gases which are the major causes of global warming and climate change. Excessive emission of greenhouse gases has been discovered to affect the health of individuals, communities and institutions in Nigeria adversely.

This study identifies that the use of solar energy which is one of the climate change mitigation strategies will help to enhance good health and well being, increase environmental sustainability and also boost sustainable economic growth in Nigeria. This study further highlights the health and psychological benefits as well as the economic opportunities in the innovative use of solar energy in Nigeria. Through our literature review and participant observation, we have discovered that despite the recent remarkable advancements in solar energy technology, many individuals in Nigeria are still unaware of the health, environmental, economical and psychological benefits that solar energy provides. There is therefore a great need to educate individuals, communities and institutions in Nigeria on the economic, environmental, psychological and health benefits in the innovative use of solar energy in Nigeria.

Keywords: Climate Change; Health; Mitigation; Solar Energy; Sustainable Development

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