Anambra Partners USAID to Tackle Plastic waste
Worried about the growing plastic crisis in the state, the Anambra State Government has collaborated with the United States Agency for International Development, TechnoServe, and Coca-Cola to combat the challenge through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions.
This collaboration was reaffirmed during a stakeholders’ meeting on Plastic Waste Recycling Management held at the Hilton Leisure Hotel in Awka on Sunday.
Speaking at the event, the Anambra State Commissioner for Environment, Dr Felix Odimegwu, highlighted the environmental dangers posed by improperly managed plastic waste.
“Plastic waste becomes a menace to the environment when not separated and channelled for recycling. Our agenda aims to help address it, as it is built under key strategic pillars of design, collect, and partner, which we have been implementing across our operations.
“We have the strong belief that every package has value and life beyond its initial use and, as such, should be collected and recycled into either a new bottle or another material for beneficial use, thereby taking off the lid on one-use-only life span into a completely circular economy,” he stated.
Odimegwu emphasised that partnerships like that were crucial for raising awareness about the importance of waste separation for recycling, which in turn contributes to economic prosperity through the plastic recycling value chain.
The Country Director of TechnoServe Nigeria, Mrs Adesuwa Akinboro, represented by the Senior Programme Manager, Mr Benneth Obasiohia, stressed the necessity of collaboration in addressing plastic pollution in the state.
Akinboro pointed out that the project not only aimed to mitigate environmental damage but also to boost local economies and create sustainable livelihoods.
She remarked, “Only 12 per cent of plastic is being recycled in the country,” urging stakeholders to collaborate for a cleaner, greener future.
Also, stakeholder, Dr Jude Ezeanokwasi underscored the importance of waste management policies and regulations in Anambra State, noting the involvement of private sector stakeholders, such as the Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria, Anambra State Waste Recyclers Association, and plastic aggregators in the dialogue.
He mentioned that the Nigeria Plastic Solutions Activity was committed to transforming plastic waste into valuable resources while creating jobs and fostering sustainable communities.
“Our giving is focused on sustainable access to safe water, climate resilience and disaster risk preparedness and response, circular economy, economic empowerment, and causes impacting our hometown community,” he said.
The event also featured presentations on strategic partnerships for enhanced waste management in Anambra State.
The Chairman of the ASWAMA Board of Directors, Professor Emma Ezenwaji; and senior business advisor, Franklin Nwaribe, provided insights into the Nigeria Plastic Solutions Activity and its objectives.
The Coca-Cola Foundation, a partner in the initiative, reiterated its commitment to making a positive impact in communities worldwide.
The foundation supports transformative ideas and institutions that address complex global challenges and leave a measurable and lasting impact.
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