As Nigeria continues to seek ways of curbing environmental pollution in the country, the federal ministry of Environment has donated Plastic Waste Reverse Vending machines to the National Assembly.
The Minister of Environment, Mr. Balarabe Abbas Lawal said that the reverse vending machine represents not just a tool, but a symbol of Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for the country..
He said that the ” Reverse vending machines are a cutting-edge solution in waste management. They allow individuals to deposit bottles and other recyclable materials, receiving a reward in return. This simple yet powerful technology encourages proper waste disposal and creates a culture of recycling, where each citizen can actively participate in protecting our environment.
Beyond its environmental impact, this machine promotes the concept of circular economy. Instead of plastic ending up in landfills or polluting our oceans, it re-enters the production cycle, reducing the demand for new resources and minimizing our ecological footprint.”
He noted that Nigeria stands to benefit from a cleaner communities, with fewer plastics littering the streets and waterways
” Economic opportunities where jobs are created and local industries boosted, and increased public awareness where it fosters the mindset of responsibility and sustainability, especially for future generations
With its unveiling, we embrace local innovation and craftmanship, and a renewed dedication to protecting our environment”. He said.
He added that the machine marks the beginning of a new chapter in waste management for Nigeria.
On his part, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr. Mahmud Adam Kambari, said that the commissioning and unveiling of Plastics Waste Reverse Vending Machine falls under the esteemed Project, “Promoting sustainable plastic value chains through circular economy practices,” of the ministry.
He noted that the initiative is implemented by the Ministry in collaboration with UNIDO with the funding from the Government of Japan.
” This marks a crucial step towards addressing the pressing challenge of plastic waste pollution in our country.
Plastic waste has become a global menace, with far-reaching consequences on our environment, human health, and the economy. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, the Federal Ministry of Environment has been actively pursuing strategies to promote sustainable waste management approaches to enhance the transition from linear economy to circular economy model.
The introduction of Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) is a key component of this endeavor.” He said.
He stressed that the innovative machines will incentivize proper plastic waste disposal by rewarding citizens for returning recyclable plastic bottles and containers.
” This not only encourages responsible waste management but also contributes to the collection of valuable plastic waste for recycling, thereby reducing environmental pollution and creating sustainable livelihoods. I am confident that this initiative will serve as a model for other parts of the country, demonstrating the effectiveness of the technological solutions in addressing environmental challenges”. He stressed.
Headded that through concerted efforts and collaborative partnerships, Nigeria can effectively manage plastic waste, protect the environment, and build a more sustainable future for generations to come.
The UNIDO representative said that the machine marks the beginning of something new in Nigeria.
He said that the management of plastic waste has been a big challenge to Nigeria, Africa and the world.
The Chairman of the House committee on Environment, Julius Pondi and his vice chairman, Mr. Terser Ugbor unveiled the machine for the benefit of Nigerians.
Oyenike Oyeniyi
Comments are closed.