Tinubu Advised to Take Serious Action on Plastic Pollution

By: Michael Mike

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been advised to take serious action towards clearing the nation of the threat of plastic pollution.

Speaking at the Commemoration of the World Environment Day in Abuja, the Chairman and Founder of Nigerian Centre for Climate Renewal, Resilience and Adaptation (NICRA), Alhaji Mohammad Danjuma said strong will power of Mr. President just as he did with the fuel subsidy is required to put the alarming rate of plastic pollution in the country to rest.

He said: “Everyone knows that the policy concerning the use of plastic need to be changed in the country to stop sachet water and the use of polytene but no one wants to go there so as not to be seen as attacking the not to rich in the society.

“But definitely we need to put in place legal framework and physical structures to stop this as it is currently done in some other African countries. We have to take some bold decisions just like the removal of fuel subsidy to move ahead in life and not jeopardize the future of the country and life of Nigerians.”

He lamented that plastic waste has been singled out as one of the greatest contributors to flooding in the country, and the new administration should also take bold step to tackle the challenges in this area.

He added that: “At the Nigerian Centre for Climate Renewal, Resilience and Adaptation, we are committed to being part of the solution. Through innovative approaches and community engagement, we actively work towards reducing waste and promoting sustainable alternatives. Our efforts include initiatives such as plastic recycling programs, advocating for plastic-free policies and promoting the use of eco-friendly materials.

“Furthermore, we recognize the importance of education and awareness in combating plastic pollution. By organizing workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns, we aim to empower individuals and communities with the knowledge and tools to make environmentally responsible choices.”

He insisted that: “Together, we can raise awareness about the dangers of single-use plastics and inspire the adoption of sustainable practices.”

Meanwhile, the Federal Government acknowledged that plastic has become integral part of the society but that its threats have to be checked.

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Alhaji Yusuf Ibrahim Idris said: “Plastic has become an integral part of the society due to its wide range of uses and economic benefits. However, it has negative consequences to human health, natural ecosystems and the climate.”

He noted that: “Nigeria is no stranger to the concerns over the increasing quantum of plastic waste in our environment from all manner of sources such as packaging/storage of food, drinks and beverages, shopping, etc. as they litter the environment, block drainages resulting in flooding and also release toxic gases when burnt or incinerated with devastating effects on our health and the environment.”

Idris lamented that Nigeria is one of the countries with the fastest growing population in the world and produces enormous volumes of wastes as a result of her prevalent linear economy (extract-make-use-dispose) approach to production and consumption, where materials are used to manufacture products that last one lifespan before becoming waste. This approach is particularly resource inefficient and contributes significantly to resource depletion and waste generation, hence, inimical to the achievement of sustainable development goals.”

He said: “It has therefore become imperative to adopt the circular economy model in which the productive use of resources is enhanced over time to promote sustainable development.

“This concept is gaining traction all over the world as a model of production and consumption, which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible, thus extending the life cycle of products and generating wealth along the value addition chain.”

He insisted that: “The Ministry has made steady progress in the adoption and implementation of circular economy in order to promote environmentally sound management of wastes.”

Tinubu Advised to Take Serious Action on Plastic Pollution