The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Professor Ikechukwu Simplicius Dozie, has urged members of the University community to adopt environmentally responsible practices to safeguard the environment and build a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable campus.

Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Clifford M. Agu, the Vice Chancellor made the call during the Institution's commemoration of the 2026 World Environment Day, organised by the School of Environmental Sciences.

He commended the School for bringing the global environmental campaign to the University community, noting that environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility. He stated that every member of the University community should embrace environmentally responsible practices that promote a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable campus.

The Vice Chancellor reaffirmed the University management's commitment to collaborating with relevant stakeholders and supporting initiatives to protect the environment and advance sustainable development.

The Dean of the School of Environmental Sciences, Professor Mrs R.F. Njoku Tony, described environmental sustainability as a collective responsibility, urging staff and students to adopt Eco Friendly habits, including proper waste management, waste reduction, and energy conservation. She stressed that protecting the environment requires the commitment of everyone and called for embracing sustainable practices alongside intensified research to address environmental challenges.

Njoku Tony highlighted the need for increased research in critical areas such as noise pollution, green building, the circular economy, and climate adaptation strategies tailored to Southeast Nigeria.

Delivering the keynote lecture titled "From Urbanisation to Climate Change: Challenges of Resilience in Nigeria and Sub Saharan Africa," Professor Michael A. Nwachukwu identified tree planting as one of the most practical long term solutions to mitigating the effects of climate change.

Nwachukwu described tree planting as one of the most effective long term strategies for combating climate change, adding that reducing exposure to environmental pollutants and supporting actions that strengthen climate resilience remain essential.

The event formed part of the University's broader efforts to promote sustainability awareness among staff and students while positioning the Institution as an active contributor to environmental research and climate adaptation solutions in the region.