Transforming Waste Management: A Key Strategy in the Fight Against Climate Change

Waste management is a big issue in Nigeria, especially with its growing population. The country struggles to turn waste into resources, and climate change isn’t helping either.

Rivers State is a clear example. Plastics litter the oceans, rivers, and even streams, posing serious risks to both health and the environment. According to the World Bank, plastics make up 5 to 12 percent of global waste, and a chunk of it ends up polluting our surroundings.

Plastic waste harms wildlife, contaminates food and water, and even contributes to climate change. It’s not just an environmental problem; it can lead to significant health issues for people.

But there’s hope. Recycling waste into products that can be sold can boost Nigeria’s economy. This process could bring in cash through exports and help improve the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Consider the story of Mrs. Vivian Wabiye, a 30-year-old mother of three. After her husband passed away, she struggled to provide for her family. Things changed when a friend introduced her to collecting plastic waste. She started picking up plastic bottles and selling them to recycling centers.

Now, Wabiye earns between ₦5,000 and ₦10,000 daily, allowing her to care for her children and send them to school. Her transformation is inspiring, and it’s not unique. Barile Numbari, a 40-year-old, has also built a life for his kids through collecting and selling plastics.

These stories show how creating wealth from waste can lift people out of poverty. However, awareness around this concept is still low. According to the Global audit and tax advisory firm KPMG, Nigeria faces high unemployment, with many young people unable to find jobs. The economy is expected to grow slowly this year, at around three percent, making job creation even tougher.

As climate change continues to threaten our planet, recycling can play a huge role in lowering greenhouse gas emissions. A study from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) highlights that Nigeria produces over 32 million tons of solid waste annually, with 2.5 million tons being plastic. Alarmingly, only 20 to 30 percent of this plastic waste is collected and recycled.

Mike Karikpo, an environmentalist, believes that recycling is crucial in fighting the climate crisis. Dr. Dasetima Altraide from the University of Port Harcourt adds that reducing plastic waste could improve public health by minimizing mosquito breeding and preventing diseases.

Nigeria’s struggle with poverty is profound. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reports that around 133 million Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty. The unemployment rate could rise to 40.6 percent this year, making it more critical for the government to invest in recycling initiatives.

This situation is a wake-up call for Nigeria. The government should prioritize recycling campaigns and create actionable plans to combat both environmental pollution and poverty. By investing in waste management, Nigeria can turn its challenges into opportunities for growth and well-being.

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climate change,waste management