Energy Exploitation And Environmental Impact In Nigeria: The Way Forward.

Abstract

Energy is the basis of industrial civilisation; without energy, modern life would be difficult to live. However, the exploitation and utilisation of energy in this case non-renewable energy (oil, gas and coal) comes with effects that impact negatively on the environment such as environmental pollution which affects weather conditions, soil fertility, aquatic habitats and wildlife animals. This paper, after highlighting the various environmental impact of energy exploitation, emphasizes on the need for the stakeholders, in this context, government, engineers, scientist, investors and community leaders to rise up to the challenges and ensure that the impacts of energy to the environment are addressed. It advocates for interdisciplinary approach and strict adherence to professional ethics by engineers and scientists to address the problems while the appropriate government agencies should enforce the various environmental laws. And judging by the threat the non-renewable energy exploitation poses to humans and the environment, the paper suggests a gradual shift to clean energy technology for sustainable development.Key words: Energy Exploitation, Environment Pollution, Modern Technologies, Sustainable Development.