Ogun State is taking the lead in recycling waste to wealth in Nigeria, with over 1,500 tons of plastic waste being converted into valuable resources daily. This was disclosed by the Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ola Oresanya, while addressing Information and Public Relations Officers in the state.
According to Dr. Oresanya, turning waste to wealth is beneficial to individuals, society, and the government.
However, he noted that many people lack knowledge about investing in the recycling business, which poses a significant challenge.
To address this, the commissioner encouraged people to consider converting waste to wealth, highlighting the Extended Producer Regulation (EPR) that allows consumers to gather plastic waste and exchange it for benefits from production companies.
Ogun State currently has eight major industries converting waste to wealth, but only one is owned by a Nigerian, while the remaining seven are owned by Asians. This presents an opportunity for local investors to tap into the recycling business and contribute to the state’s economy.
To promote recycling and waste management, the Ministry of Environment will soon organize a skill acquisition program. This program will train citizens on producing gas from waste in septic tanks, providing an alternative source of energy. Interested individuals can subscribe to the program through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry.
Dr. Oresanya’s call for more investors in the recycling business is timely, given the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability. With the right investment and knowledge, recycling can become a lucrative business, creating jobs and contributing to the state’s economic growth.
The commissioner’s efforts to promote recycling and waste management have been well-received by stakeholders, including Information and Public Relations Officers who attended the monthly congress.
As Ogun State continues to lead in recycling waste to wealth, it is essential for investors, individuals, and the government to work together to achieve a more sustainable future.
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