Nigeria Inches Towards A Cleaner Environment As FG Unveils Locally Fabricated Recycling Machine
Nigeria took a significant step forwards in its fight against plastic pollution as the Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, commissioned a reversed vending machine. The event which took place on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at the UN House Abuja was part of UNIDO’s project, tagged ”Promoting Sustainable Plastic Value Chains Through Circular Economy Practices”. Salako said plastic waste reverse vending machine represents not just a tool, but a symbol of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for Nigeria.
“Reverse vending machines (RVMs) are cutting-edge solutions in waste management. They are automated machines that collect and process recyclable materials, particularly plastic bottles, cans, and glass containers. They allow individuals to deposit bottles and other recyclable materials, receiving a reward in return. This simple yet powerful technology encourages proper waste disposal and creates a culture of recycling, where each citizen can actively participate in protecting our environment”, the Minister said
Beyond its environmental impact, Salako said the machine promotes the concept of circular economy as well as increased recycling rates, reduced litter and waste, convenient recycling process and encourages responsible waste management. It also provides valuable data on recycling patterns and number of unemployed youths engaged in the process.
“Instead of plastic ending up in landfills or polluting our oceans, it re-enters the production cycle, reducing the demand for new resources and minimizing our ecological footprint. We stand to benefit from cleaner communities, with fewer plastics littering our streets and waterways, economic opportunities where jobs are created and local industries boosted as well as increased public awareness where it fosters the mindset of responsibility and sustainability, especially for future generations
“With the unveiling of this machine which is locally fabricated by a team of young Nigerians, we are embracing local innovation and craftmanship, and renewing our dedication to protecting our environment”, Salako added.
