IMPACT OF CHEMICAL CONTAMINATION ON BIODIVERSITY: A LEGAL PERSPECTIVE ON CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF THREATENED SPECIES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Dr. Greg Onaiwu**

Abstract

Chemical pollution emerges as a significant and urgent threat to environmental biodiversity. Its potential impact including habitat degradation, wildlife endangerment, the accumulation of toxins within the food chain, disruptions to ecosystems, genetic mutations, alterations in reproductive patterns etcetera. The study scrutinized the extant international and national legal frameworks regulating biodiversity conservation in Nigeria, offering a dual perspective on the challenges and prospects of environmental preservation. Within the context of this perspective, the study underscores the importance of effectively addressing chemical pollution, and the imperative for coordinated efforts at local, national and international scales. Moreover, an in-depth examination of the international and national Legal frameworks for biodiversity conservation in Nigeria is undertaken. This analysis seeks to shed light on the existing mechanisms, which is put in place to mitigate the adverse impacts of chemical pollution on the biodiversity. It also evaluates the effectiveness of the extant legal frameworks in addressing the intricate challenges posed by environmental degradation. Drawing from the insights gained through this investigation, findings show that though there exists plethora of legislations for biodiversity conservation, there still appears to be a weak implementation of these laws, resource limitations and highlights the need for enhanced cross-sectoral collaboration. The paper concludes by proffering pragmatic and actionable recommendations such as canvassing for total government commitment and ensuring effective enforcement in strengthening and protecting environmental conservation in the face of chemical contamination in Nigeria.

Keywords: Biodiversity, Chemical, Pollution, Ecosystem, Challenges