The Lagos Waste Management Authority has called on residents of Lagos State to support its plastic recycling programme, saying it “plays a crucial role in mitigating environmental degradation and contributes to economic growth by creating employment opportunities within the state.”
The agency also urged residents of the state to show commitment towards responsible waste management.
Addressing the media at the 2023 World Clean-Up Day at the weekend in Lagos, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, encouraged residents to actively participate in community clean-up activities, focusing on waterways.
“Residents are encouraged to actively participate in community cleanup activities, focusing on waterways. This collective effort helps in the removal of plastic waste from our vulnerable ecosystems, safeguarding them from further harm. We also advise residents to own a waste bin and patronise only accredited PSP operators.
“One of LAWMA’s most impactful initiatives is the promotion of a plastic recycling programme. This programme plays a crucial role in mitigating environmental degradation and contributes to economic growth by creating employment opportunities within the state. So, we encourage residents to embrace sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics, such as reusable water bottles,” Gbadegesin said.
While stressing the importance of source separation – the practice of separating waste at its point of generation – the LAWMA MD/CEO said the overuse of single-use plastics worsens the pollution problem, advising residents to limit their use and seek sustainable alternatives.
He also urged residents to shun improper disposal of waste on drainages, setbacks, walkways, and other inappropriate locations, adding that littering not only mars the environment, but also posed a serious threat to wildlife and aquatic life.
