Topic for May 2023 <Eco-Friendly Urban Technology>

Cameroon is a country with a population of over 25 million people, experiencing rapid urbanization. As Cameroons cities expand, the demand for technologies that are eco-friendly keeps increasing at a geometric rate. In this article, we will be exploring the ecofriendly technologies that Cameroon has adopted to reduce its Carbon footprint. We will be examining the extent to which the adoption of bicycles, green buildings, solar energy and electric vehicles has contributed to the realization of greener and more sustainable future in Cameroon.

I) Solar Energy (Harnessing the Potentials of the Sun)

Solar Energy is one of the most remarkable eco-urban technologies in Cameroon. As a clean and renewable energy, solar energy is gaining alot of popularity accross the country. Cameroon has the potential to generate up to 500MW of solar energy and the country is making relentless efforts to harness this energy. The Cameroon launched a land slide $60 million solar energy project to install 166,000 solar panels throughout the 10 regions of Cameroon. This project has not only improved the livelihoods of Cameroonians but has greatly contributed a friendly future. 

II) Bicycles (Pedaling towards Sustainability)

Source; worldbike.org

The second eco-friendly technology that we will be examining in this report is pedaling towards sustainability. This seems funny but Cameroon has embraced the humble technology. With more than 30 million bicycles moving across the streets of Cameroon, this eco-friendly transport mode is reducing carbon emissions and driving Cameroons fight towards a sustainable future.

III) Building Green - Building Smart.

Source: expandingessence.wordpress.com

Cameroon is carrying out massive investment in green building technologies with the main aim of revolutionizing urban development. Green buildings are designed with renewable energy technologies and environmental consciousness at the forefront. These buildings are equipped with solar panels and energy efficient lighting systems to reduce energy consumption and protect the environment. The World Green Building Council reports that green buildings can cut down energy usage by 50% compared to normal buildings. Through these initiatives, Cameroon is making a bold step towards the adoption of greener and smarter buildings that contribute to a more environmentally friendly future. 

IV) Electric Vehicles (Driving into the Future)

Photo source: Electrek

Cameroon has grown to the understanding that transportation accounts for a significant amount of global energy consumption and carbon emissions. To reduce the adverse effects of transportation, Cameroon is making significant efforts towards the adoption of electric vehicles (EV). This seems like a dream to many Cameroonians, but it is the way forward. The Cameroon launched an ambitious program in 2019 to promote the adoption of electric vehicles which entails that 20% of new imported vehicles in Cameroon be electric by 2035. This proactive move paves the way for a sustainable future where transportation is environmentally friendly.

Conclusion:

The implementation of eco-friendly urban technologies in Cameroon has started yielding fruits. Solar energy is gradually reducing dependence on traditional biomass and fossil fuels, while bicycles have all reduced traffic congestion and improved the quality of air. In is worth noting that Cameroon ranks 119th out of 180 countries in terms of environmental performance according to statistics published by the Environmental Performance Index in 2020. However, there is still much work to be done but Cameroons journey towards the adoption of eco-friendly urban technologies is undoubtedly a slow but steady one. With continued investment, Cameroon has the potential to become a global leader in Eco-Friendly Urban Technologies.

By Jean Blaise Seka