By Lilian Akpunonu :
The Anambra State Ministry of Environment in collaboration with the Anambra State Waste Recyclers Association (ASWRA) has launched the All Anambra Communities Plastic Waste Recovery Challenge 2.0, with the hashtag# Beat plastic pollution: A groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering communities to take action against plastic pollution and promote sustainability.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Felix Odimegwu, recalled that in his welcome address during the official flagged off of All Anambra State Communities Plastic Waste Recovery Challenge 2.0 held at the State Secretariat Awka, on Thursday 27th June,2024, he emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing plastic pollution.
He highlighted the success of the first edition, which recovered over 10,000 tonnes of plastic waste, exceeding the target of 10,000 tonnes.
The commissioner announced a ban on single-use plastics and encouraged entrepreneurs to venture into recycling sectors, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices, education, and innovation in plastic waste management.
He posited that the initiative is to encourage the waste management business to ensure that the people of Anambra key into Governor Soludo’s vision of a clean, green and sustainable environment.
“So this year’s challenge aims to recover 100,000 tonnes of plastic waste, engage 179 communities, and create indirect jobs in the industrial and environmental sectors. Participating communities will compete to collect the most plastic waste, with cash prizes awarded to the top three communities.
” We are committed to enabling ndi Anambra to uphold the 5Rs of the circular economy: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, and Recycle. This initiative aligns with our goal of creating a sustainable environment and fostering responsible consumption and production,” he said.
The exercise was kicked off by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim who urges every citizen to take responsibility for the environment and join the movement towards a greener, sustainable future.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mr. Tochukwu Obodogha, urged the people of Anambra State to embrace the challenge, emphasizing that environmental protection is a collective responsibility that benefits all, and encouraging everyone to play a part in preserving the state’s ecological integrity.
The Co ordinator of Anambra State Waste Recyclers Association(ASWRA) Pastor Ben Agabe welcomed the collaboration with the government, citing it as a model for the desired outcome where individuals recognize the value of plastic waste and can earn income by bringing it to recycling facilities, fostering a mindset shift that ‘waste is wealth’.
Others present at the event Included Traditional Rulers, Transition Committee, Chairman of Idemili North Local Government Area, Mr.Stanley Nkwoka, ASWAMA Boss, Mike Ozoemena, Prof Phil Eze, the MD/CEO ANSEWCCA, Comrade Celestine Anere, MD/CEO OCHA Brigade, ASATU National President, Students of St.John Vianey Secondary School,Igbariam, Students of St.Lucy’s Secondary School, Ifite, Awka Among others.
* Akpunonu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
