By Francis Kadiri
After years of partnering with government to deal with housing deficit in Abuja, Real Estate Development Company, Cosgrove, is giving back to the Federal Capital Territory to save it from the ravages of climate change.
A thousand trees are expected to adorn Abuja, courtesy of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to commemorate 2019 Customer Week.
The activity reflects the environment-friendly policy of the company, which is building over 1000 automated homes in three estates in the FCT.
“It is an effort to give back to society, to serve society and make efforts that will regenerate environmental splendor,” Chief Executive Officer of Cosgrove, Mr Umar Abdullahi, said
“Yes, we build the best automated homes, but we also believe in the development of serene environment around a home as it adds value to the structure,” he added.
Discussing the environmental benefits of trees, the CEO said, “Trees are a source of benefit to nations; they support economy, absorb harmful gases, support wildlife, improve mental health, offsets environmental impacts and help control flood.”
“Trees give off oxygen that we all need to breathe, trees also reduce the amount of storm water runoff, which reduces erosion and pollution in our waterways and may reduce the effects of flooding.” According to him, some species of wildlife depend on trees for habitat, while trees also provide food, protection, and homes for many birds and mammals.
“Trees are the oldest living organisms on the planet, not only are they aesthetically beautiful, but they offset environmental impacts and create a healthy, clean environment for us to enjoy.”
He explained that trees prevent nearly $7 billion in health costs annually by filtering air pollution and preventing more adverse effects, adding that trees increase aesthetic value of homes reducing energy costs. Recent studies, Abdulahi disclosed, show that mature trees planted in a nicely manicured yards could increase a home’s value from one to 19 percent.
“In fact, neighborhood streets with shady trees can be a staggering 6 – 10 degrees cooler than streets without trees. This not only affects the comfort of the neighborhood but also reduces the area’s energy needs,” he said.
He called on homeowners to consider increasing the value of their homes by planting trees around. He explained that although it may take a while to grow to maturity, but noting that they will eventually grow and be enjoyed by residents for many years to come.
