The Federal Ministry of Environment recently held an important meeting in Abuja to discuss a new policy aimed at reducing marine litter in Nigeria. This initiative is part of a larger effort to help Nigeria transition to a circular economy, which focuses on sustainability and reducing waste.
Mrs. Falmata Bukar-Kolo, the Deputy Director of the Solid Waste Management and Technology Division, highlighted the dangers of plastic pollution. She mentioned that microplastics have already entered our food supply through fish, affecting both our health and the environment. Additionally, burning plastics contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, worsening climate change.
“Plastics are everywhere and last for a long time in nature. We need to change our approach,” Bukar-Kolo emphasized. She called for better waste management practices, stricter environmental laws, and changes in how citizens and businesses handle waste.
Mr. Clem Ugorji, representing PROTEGO (an initiative focused on marine litter prevention), stressed the urgency of addressing this issue. He pointed out that the crisis comes with high environmental, economic, and reputational costs for Nigeria. Ugorji is hopeful that the new roadmap developed for 2025-2040 will lead to real solutions rather than just discussions.
The event featured discussions about a draft policy that provides recommendations to tackle the issues of waste management and the flow of plastics from land to the ocean. This policy aims to highlight gaps in current practices and suggest actionable steps.
In Nigeria, plastic pollution is not just an environmental issue; it’s a growing public health concern. A recent survey indicated that nearly 80% of Nigerians are aware of the risks associated with plastic waste. Many citizens are expressing their views on social media, calling for stronger action against waste pollution.
The PROTEGO initiative receives support from the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, and it involves organizations like adelphi, WASTE Africa, and the Nigeria Climate Innovation Centre (NCIC). This collaboration aims to empower local stakeholders and improve waste management systems.
As the conversation about marine litter continues, it’s clear that collective effort and commitment are essential to protect our oceans and public health. By taking these steps, Nigeria can make progress toward a cleaner, healthier future.
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