The Minister of Environment, Mrs Amina Mohammed, has urged industries in the country to strive to reduce pollution and other hazards that may contribute to climate change and its effects.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Director of Press, Federal Ministry of Environment, Alhaji Isiaka Yusuf, on Tuesday in Abuja.

The statement quoted the minister as making the remark at the closing of a seminar on ‘Trade Closing Bell at Nigerian Stock Exchange, Lagos.’

“As we strive to green the economy, we must begin to reduce environmental degradation, pollution, and the effects of climate change.”

She said that to achieve this, partnership between the ministry and the private sector was key toward a sustainable transition to a green economy.

According to her, this will ensure that industries adhere to standard and regulations on environmental protection.

“Companies need to be more responsible by adopting sustainable business models.

“The era of sustainable development is the paradigm shift needed to ensure that we protect the planet for future generations by ensuring the interaction of the environment, social and economic needs.

“Putting people at the centre is good for business.”

Mohammed promised that the ministry would create opportunities to grow a prosperous nation through empowerment of the people to take action, as well as contribution to protect the planet.

“This is reinforcing the (current) administration’s approach in the change agenda for the environment sector through peace, jobs and a corruption free society.

“The private sector must contribute to this new change by adopting a business model that is transparent, accountable and encourages women in decision- making roles.” (NAN)

•Photo shows Environment Minister Amina Mohammed.