Open Defecation: Kaduna Volunteers Transform 25,000 Plastic Bottles into 4-Room Toilet

In an innovative effort to combat open defecation and plastic pollution, a dedicated volunteer from Kaduna, Alamin Lawal, has initiated the construction of a four-room toilet at Abakwa Secondary School using more than 25,000 repurposed plastic bottles. This groundbreaking project aims to improve both sanitation for students and lessen the environmental impact of plastic waste.

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Alamin, an advocate for community development, explained that work on the project is already underway at the school, which currently has no restroom facilities despite catering to over 360 students. “This new facility will allow students to relieve themselves during school hours, a significant improvement for their health and dignity,” he remarked.

The initiative utilizes plastic bottles—ranging from those used for popular beverages like Pepsi, Coke, Miranda, and Sprite—collected from local waste sites. The goal is not only to create a sustainable solution for the school’s sanitation needs but also to tackle the broader issue of plastic pollution that exacerbates flooding and other environmental challenges in the region.

To ensure the project’s success, Alamin has enlisted a team of skilled engineers, builders, and bricklayers. “We are committed to constructing a toilet that will last for many years, and we’re grateful for the support from the ‘Hey Global Climate Fund’ for funding this initiative,” he added.

Engineer Siba Ahmed, chief engineer with the Developmental Associations for Renewable Energy (DARE), is overseeing the construction. “We are constructing the first-ever four-room plastic waste toilet for the students at Abakwa Community School,” he stated.

He expressed optimism about the project’s progress, projecting its completion before the end of Ramadan, with Divine support. “This toilet will be more durable than traditional block buildings and can withstand various weather conditions,” he confirmed.

The significance of this initiative extends beyond the school’s immediate needs; it serves as a model of how creative solutions can address pressing environmental challenges.

Ibrahima Yakubu, a science and climate journalist with African Climate Reporters, emphasized the importance of such projects in his recent visit to the site.

He gives reference to  a 2924 report from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), which noted that a staggering 280 million tons of plastic are produced globally each year, with only a small fraction being recycled. “Projects like this can inspire others to re-think waste and its potential uses,” Ibrahima stated.

He urged Civil Society Organizations and environmental NGOs to support initiatives like Alamin’s, calling for a united front to tackle both open defecation and plastic waste. Additionally, he highlighted the need for the Nigerian government to acknowledge and reward individuals like Alamin Lawal, who are devoted to making meaningful changes in their communities.

As the construction of this innovative toilet progresses, it stands as a testament to the ingenuity and determination of individuals committed to improving the environment and the lives of future generations.