By Karen James
In a bid to address packaging waste pollution in Anambra State, the Nigerian Plastic Solutions Activity (NPSA) has pledged its readiness to partner with the Anambra State Government. The program manager for NPSA, Benneth Obasiohia, made this commitment during a one-day Anambra Plastic Waste Recycling Stakeholders workshop organized in collaboration with the Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA).
The workshop, focused on “beating packaging plastic waste pollution in Anambra by 2025,” brought together stakeholders from the packaging and bottling industries, government agencies, and the recycling alliance. The goal was to discuss collective responsibility for packaging waste pollution and review the current recycling situation in Anambra State.
Obasiohia disclosed that the project is expected to generate employment opportunities for 6,000 individuals, predominantly women and vulnerable people in the state. Additionally, the two-year project will generate a revenue of 4.8 million US dollars.
The NPSA is also collaborating with the Ministry of Environment, Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria (WAPAN), Anambra State Waste Recyclers Association (ASWRA), financial institutions, and other relevant stakeholders who are willing to support the initiative.
Plastic waste pollution has become a global concern, with Nigeria being the 9th highest contributor to global plastics waste. With approximately 2.5 million tons of plastic waste generated annually in Nigeria, a significant 88% of this waste remains unrecycled, posing a threat to the environment, marine life, and public health.
The U.S. government, in partnership with the Coca-Cola Foundation, designed the NPSA initiative to address these challenges. Implemented by TechnoServe Nigeria in Anambra and Lagos states, the NPSA aims to recycle 49,000 metric tons of plastic waste from Anambra and Lagos over the next two years. Anambra State alone is expected to recycle 29,000 metric tons.
To achieve this goal, the NPSA will provide support to plastic waste aggregators and collectors through capacity building and equipment. The initiative aims to boost local economies, create new jobs, particularly for women and youth, and provide sustainable livelihoods for communities.
With a 4-million-dollar investment from USAID and the Coca-Cola Foundation into the NPSA, collaborative action is emphasized as crucial for success. The Anambra State Government, local governments, civil society organizations, traditional rulers, and business owners are urged to work together in clearing plastic waste and achieving the project’s objectives.
At the workshop, the Commissioner for Environment, Engr Felix Odimegwu, highlighted the significance of plastic waste management in protecting the environment and improving community well-being. He commended the efforts of the state government in pursuing sustainability through waste reduction and recycling projects.
Odimegwu announced the launch of the “All Anambra Communities Plastic Wastes Recovery Challenge,” which aims to recover 100,000 tons of plastic waste, create 5,000 indirect jobs, strengthen the recycling value chain, and improve waste management across the state. Communities that actively participate in the challenge will be rewarded based on the amount of plastic waste they recover.
The collaboration between TechnoServe, NPSA, and the Anambra State Government is expected to bring technical expertise, innovative solutions, and substantial resources to effectively manage plastic waste. It is also anticipated to create economic opportunities, empower local communities, and position Anambra State as a leader in environmental sustainability.
The stakeholders present at the workshop emphasized the importance of public-private participation, investment, and policy incentives in promoting recycling standards within the industry. This collaborative effort is seen as a vital step towards achieving a cleaner and greener Anambra State.
