The Federal Government has unveiled an upgraded Plastic Polyethylene Manufacturing Technology, an initiative aimed at effectively managing an estimated 2.5 million tonnes of plastic wastes generated annually in Nigeria.
Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal at the event in Abuja said the project will reduce plastic pollution, enhance resource efficiency, and foster economic development in the country.
Lawal highlighted the project’s benefits which include ensuring environmental sustainability while creating employment opportunities for Nigeria’s growing workforce.
Stakeholders at the event inspected the upgraded production and recycling process, from raw plastic pellets to the final product, an initiative set to bolster local recycling industries by incorporating cutting-edge technologies to enhance efficiency.
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With this project by the Federal government in collaboration with United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and support from the Japanese government, Nigeria stands a chance to becoming a regional leader in sustainable plastic waste management.
The event signified a critical step in transitioning the country from a linear economy to a circular one, where plastic materials are reintegrated into the economic value chain.
Nigeria generates an estimated 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with less than 20% effectively managed.
(Editor: Okechukwu Eze)
