By John Okeke
As part of measures to promoting sustainable waste management practices and reducing plastic pollution in the country, the Federal Government has unveiled plastic waste reverse vending machines.
On the occasion in Abuja, the Minister of Environment Mallam Balarabe Lawal emphasized that the machines symbolized Nigeria’s commitment to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.
The initiative is part of a project titled “Promoting Sustainable Plastic Value Chains through Circular Economy Practices,” implemented by the Ministry in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, UNIDO and funded by the Government of Japan.
Nigeria faces significant challenges in effective waste management, generating millions of tons of plastic waste annually.
The introduction of the reverse vending machines is a key addition to existing government efforts to tackle the issue.
The Minister, Balarabe Lawal who was represented by the permanent secretary in the Ministry, Mahmoud Kambari, stated that the machines would not only promote a cleaner environment but also create economic opportunities through job creation.
He explained that the project allows individuals to deposit recyclable materials and receive rewards, encouraging proper waste disposal and fostering a culture of recycling.
Also speaking, Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Bahijjatu Abubakar said the ministry was actively pursuing strategies to enhance waste management approaches and transition from a linear to a circular economy model.
On his part, the UNIDO representative at the event, Osuji Ofiu reaffirmed UNIDO’s commitment to partnering with Nigeria to drive positive change, reduce plastic waste, and support sustainable industrial development.
In a remark, the Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Julius Pondi described the project as a paradigm shift in Nigeria’s approach to waste management.
Mr Pondi pledged to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Environment and other stakeholders to ensure the project’s successful implementation and replicate its successes across the country.
