September 2024

LAWMA, Green VET Africa Hold First Youth Empowerment Workshop on Green Skills

PRESS RELEASE

In a significant step towards youth empowerment in the green sector, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and Green VET Africa, have hosted a maiden workshop, highlighting the potential in green waste management and entrepreneurship.

The event, held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Ikeja, was co-funded by the European Union, aiming to provide hands-on learning experiences for young participants from Nigeria and Ghana.

The workshop which followed a series of Green VET Project trainings geared towards equipping youths with skills in sustainable waste management and entrepreneurship, was supported by LAWMA’s technical expertise, to address the growing need for vocational education in the sector.

Delivering the keynote address, LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, represented by the Executive Director, Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, emphasised the Authority’s commitment to circular economy, where waste was viewed as a valuable resource.

He said, “LAWMA’s key role is to attain a sustainable environment which can only be achieved if we all embrace sustainable waste management practices. We want to have a city where we will all be conscious of our actions and cherish our waste as a resource”.

Gbadegesin expressed delight at LAWMA’s involvement in the initiative, adding that the workshop would help enrich knowledge, providing entrepreneurial opportunities in the process.

“The Authority is honoured to be a major player in this green initiative. So many people are ignorant of the opportunities in waste management. This workshop will no doubt bridge the knowledge gap and also expose each and everyone here, to some technological innovations in this sector, which can be leveraged for entrepreneurship advantage”, he said.

Margerita Treslini, the Area Marketing Director of Apodissi, co-founder, and General Manager, representing Green VET Africa, highlighted the origins of the initiative, which according to her, was born out of the realisation that vocational training in waste management was underdeveloped in both Europe and Africa.

“Our mission is to organise developmental training programmes in waste management in Africa, having observed the sector is not given the required attention, especially the opportunities in the sector. Spain, Ghana and Nigeria are involved in this project and we are grateful LAWMA has helped us with her technical expertise and knowledge in the waste sector, to train 100 students from Nigeria and Ghana. Here we are today, all the trainees have been taught and we progress from there”, she said.

LAWMA’s Project Director for Green VET Africa, Mrs. Ademola Elizabeth, gave an overview of the project’s objectives, which aligned with the European Green Deal’s environmental goals. She explained that the project aimed to equip 100 participants from Lagos and Kumasi, with essential skills in green waste management and micro-entrepreneurship, to boost their employability.

“Basically, this project is to promote technical vocational training for youths in Nigeria and Ghana. A total number of 100 participants have been trained in Lagos and Kumasi, respectively on green waste management and micro-entrepreneurship to improve participants’ entrepreneurial and employability skills”, she noted.

Speaking further on the team’s achievement so far, Ademola noted that one of the major gains of the initiative was the identification of specific stakeholders in the green waste management sector, who would share their experiences in the entrepreneurship journey.

“Today is all about articulating all that have been learnt into actionable goals. That is why we have invited stakeholders in the waste management sector, who will share their success stories, with challenges, so that the participants can learn from their experiences.” she stated

Also in her presentation, Mrs. Jirinsola Olaleye, Head of LAWMA’s Circular Economy Department, who spoke on “Recycling: The Lagos Story”, encouraged participants to embrace the habit of sorting waste at the source, a crucial step towards a more sustainable environment.

The workshop also included a goodwill message from Mr. Olugbenga Adebola, President of the Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN), who commended the Green VET Africa initiative, stressing the importance of collaboration to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

Representing the Lagos Recyclers Association, Financial Secretary, Mrs. Omoh Alokwe, spoke on behalf of the president, Dr. Femi Idowu, emphasising the vast opportunities in recycling and urging participants to remain focused despite challenges.

The workshop featured breakout sessions where participants discussed the opportunities and challenges in the recycling sector, followed by group presentations and feedback.

Other notable attendees included Polysmart Group Managing Director, Mr. Wasiu Balogun; CEO of HygienePlus, Mr. Abdul Ganiy Oyekunle; a representative from United Waste, Mr. Haroon Bello, among others.

Kadiri Folashade (Mrs.)

Director, Public Affairs

LAWMA

19/09/2024

September 27, 2024 lawma Uncategorized No comments yet

World Cleanup Day: LAWMA Tackles Marine Waste… calls for residents’ involvement in cleanup activities

PRESS RELEASE

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has scaled up operational activities to tackle the challenge of marine waste along the Lagos coastline, in commemoration of this year’s World Cleanup Day, with the theme: “Arctic Cities and Marine Litter”.

To this end, it has intensified efforts to rid water bodies in the state of waste debris, through the deployment of marine waste operatives, to mitigate the environmental and health hazards posed by marine litter along the coastline.

According to the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Lagos with a thriving coastal ecosystem, faces significant challenge of indiscriminate dumping of waste into its rivers, canals, and lagoons, leading to growing accumulation of marine litter, threatening the state’s rich biodiversity and human health.

He said, “We are deeply concerned about the rising level of waste that finds its way into our waterways. Marine pollution is not only a local issue, but also a global challenge, especially for cities along the coast like Lagos. LAWMA is committed to ensuring that we rid our water bodies of the litter that endangers both human and marine life”.

Gbadegesin stated that LAWMA had spearheaded an initiative aimed at combating marine waste, with the agency’s Marine Waste department, playing a pivotal role in clearing waste from Lagos waterways using specialised boats and equipment, with the efforts further supported by community sensitisation programs, to educate residents on proper waste disposal and recycling, particularly in coastal areas.

“Our Marine Waste Unit has recorded tremendous success, removing tons of waste from our waterways. But this challenge requires collective responsibility. We urge residents, especially those living in coastal and riverine communities, to be more responsible in waste management. Every piece of litter that ends up in the water poses a serious threat to our environment”, he added.

The LAWMA boss said that, as part of activities for this year’s World Clean-up Day, the Authority organised clean-up campaigns across waterfronts in the state, urging the populace to show a sense of responsibility in the quest to preserve aquatic and human lives in the metropolis.

He said further that the Authority would embark on motorised advocacy in the coming days, in Lekki and Ajah axis, to sensitise residents on the dangers inherent in dumping waste indiscriminately, especially in water bodies.

“World Cleanup Day is an opportunity for everyone to take direct action. Our waterways are a vital part of Lagos’ identity, and it’s our collective duty to protect them. I urge all residents to join us in cleaning up the city, not just because its world cleanup day but we should make it a habit. It’s not just about today; it’s about instilling long-term habits that prevent waste from reaching our water bodies”, Gbadegesin stressed.

For waste management related issues and complaints, please call LAWMA toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020 and 617, or visit www.lawma.gov.ng.

Kadiri Folashade (Mrs.)
Director, Public Affairs
20/09/2024

September 27, 2024 lawma Events No comments yet

SANWO-OLU CANVASSES ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS PACKAGING – Tasks food industry players on environmental best practice

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, has called for the use of biodegradable and compostable packaging materials by food processing companies, as an eco-friendly option, for a sustainable environment.

He made the call at the 11th edition of the PROPAK West Africa 2024: Smart Packaging Conference, held at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Speaking on the theme, “Unlocking Nigeria Food Security: Implementation of Smart Packaging to Reduce Waste”, the governor, represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, underscored the role of food packaging and processing industries in driving economic growth, charging the industry players to shape the future of the industry to an eco-friendly one.

He said, “The industries represented here today are integral to Nigeria’s economy. They form the backbone of our industrial and manufacturing sectors, supporting various key areas such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and fast-moving consumer goods. The development of these industries is vital to ensuring our national growth and competitiveness in the global market.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that the central themes of the conference, which focused on implementing sustainable packaging to reduce food waste and exploring cross-sectoral responsibilities in the plastics industry,were crucial for Nigeria’s economic stability, environmental sustainability, and the well-being of the citizenry.

“Packaging for food security is a national priority as Nigeria continues to grow in both population and economic ambition. Despite our rich agricultural resources, we still face significant post-harvest losses due to inadequate processing, packaging, and storage. In fact, it is estimated that up to 40% of food produced in Nigeria is lost before it reaches the consumer”, he stated.

He urged stakeholders to embrace sustainable packaging technologies with urgency, stressing the need for cross-sectoral collaboration to manage plastics responsibly and drive innovations that protect the environment.

“I encourage every stakeholder here to embrace the themes of this year’s event with urgency and determination. We must actively seek out ways to implement smart packaging technologies that ensure food security and reduce waste. We must collaborate across sectors to manage plastics responsibly and push forward innovations that protect both our economy and our environment”, he remarked.

In his presentation at the event, the Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, highlighted the immense global challenge of food loss and waste, which he noted was a significant contributor to environmental degradation and resource wastage, in regions like Africa, where food security was still an issue.

He said, “According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), roughly one-third of the annual food produced globally for human consumption—approximately 1.3 billion tonnes—is lost or wasted. These losses are particularly unfortunate in Africa, where approximately 20 percent of the population is undernourished.”

Gbadegesin outlined the proactive steps of Lagos State Government to address plastic waste issues and to promote sustainable packaging solutions, including the recent ban on single-use plastics, as part of the state’s broader strategy to reduce negative environmental impact.

He said “On the 22nd of January 2024, the Lagos State Government announced a ban on the usage and distribution of styrofoam packs and other single-use plastics, as part of efforts to shift the food industry towards a more sustainable practices. Also, in February 2024, Lagos State amplified the need for sensitization of our Food Systems’ Champions on modern ways of packaging, storage, and transportation of agro-produce”.

Speaking further, the LAWMA boss x-rayed various innovative packaging solutions that could transform the food industry, stressing that sustainable packaging was not only about protecting products but also about safeguarding the environment, necessitating a shift from conventional plastics use, which posed severe environmental hazards.

According to him, “Innovative sustainable packaging must meet all requirements for product safety, waste prevention, shelf life, hygiene, and health. Plastic packaging waste raises the biggest concerns on environmental impact, with 40% of disposable food packaging ending up in ways that negatively affect the environment, such as landfilling and microplastics”, he noted.

He further highlighted several sustainable packaging options, including bioplastics, biodegradable films, and plant-based packaging materials, emphasising their role in a circular economy, where packaging does not burden the environment but rather harmonises with it, pointing out the effectiveness of the solutions, particularly in reducing waste and enhancing product shelf life.

He contended that the eco-friendly solutions were not just environmentally beneficial but also aligned with consumer preferences and market trends, adding that a significant portion of consumers now prefer brands that engage in environmentally responsible practices, creating new opportunities for businesses that adopt sustainable packaging.

He said “Statistics show that 45% of customers prefer engaging with environmentally responsible brands such as those that offer eco-friendly food packaging solutions. Out of these consumers, 44% claimed that they would rather settle with a brand that supports recycling and food waste reduction.

“As we navigate the path toward a greener future, biodegradable packaging remains a pivotal solution for a sustainable world. It offers businesses a chance to enhance their reputation while minimising environmental impact, particularly in waste management and landfill diversion”, he concluded.

Also speaking, the Director-General of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Segun Ajayi, noted that the event was a potential avenue to creating a great future where everyone would have access to nutritious food and smart packaging, adding that the organisation was committed to prioritising the interest of consumers.

Other speakers were: Vice president, World Packaging Organisation, Mr. Kofi Essuman, Regional Director Afrocet Montgomery, George Pearson, President African Packaging Organisation, Ahmed Omeh, among others.

For waste management related issues and complaints, please call LAWMA toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020 and 617, or visit www.lawma.gov.ng.

September 11, 2024 lawma Events No comments yet

LAWMA ACADEMY CONCLUDES 2024 SUMMER SCHOOL

… As Program Empowers Young Eco-Warriors in Lagos

The LAWMA Academy has concluded its 2024 summer school program, a comprehensive initiative designed to educate pupils on effective waste management and recycling practices.

The four-week intensive course, which was held at LAWMA’s headquarters in Ijora-Olopa, saw participation of pupils across various schools in Lagos State.

In his address at the event, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, represented by Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, Executive Director of Finance, expressed satisfaction with the performance of kids who participated in the program, while encouraging them to apply their newly acquired knowledge in their daily lives.

He said, “I am thrilled with your performance during this training. I urge you to go out there and share what you have learned with others. You must put these lessons into practice by properly sorting your waste and utilising recycling materials to create useful items.”

He emphasised the importance of the pupils becoming ambassadors for waste management, adding “Wherever you find yourselves, remember that you now carry the responsibility of promoting good waste management practices”.

Head of LAWMA Academy, Mrs. Bola Adewumi, urged the participants to make good use of their new knowledge to promote sustainable living in their communities.

Highlights of the event included awards for outstanding students from the primary and secondary categories.

The pupils, as well as the August LAWMA Academy interns, named team SSS (Sustainable Solution Squad), showcased projects and innovations developed during the program, demonstrating their grasp of waste management concepts and their potential to drive positive change in their various communities.

The summer school curriculum covered topics such as waste segregation, recycling techniques, and the environmental impact of proper waste management. Participants also engaged in hands-on activities and practical sessions, leaving them with a sound knowledge of sustainable waste practices.

Kadiri Folashade (Mrs.)
Director, Public Affairs
29/08/2024