The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has commended the Ogun State Government on its proactive and sustainable approach to managing plastic waste, especially single-use plastics, in the state.
MAN’s Director General, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, praised the government’s initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste, promoting recycling, and ensuring a cleaner environment.
Ajayi-Kadir noted the government’s resolve to partner with manufacturers and other operators in the plastic value chain to advance its waste-to-wealth initiative.
This approach aligns with MAN’s commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible manufacturing practices.
The Ogun State Government’s approach includes the “Plastics for Cash” and “Blue Box” initiatives.
The Plastics for Cash program enables residents to exchange sorted plastic waste for monetary value or goods, while the Blue Box initiative promotes structured house-to-house waste separation and collection.
To strengthen these initiatives, Ogun State has constituted a Plastic Management Committee made up of regulatory agencies, manufacturers, and academic institutions.
This Committee is responsible for promoting the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) guidelines and supporting plastic buy-back programs and job creation along the recycling value chain.
MAN’s commendation of Ogun State’s approach comes against the backdrop of Lagos State’s ban on single-use plastics.
MAN has cautioned against such bans and called for more sustainable and beneficial approaches to manage waste, similar to the one Ogun State has adopted.
Ajayi-Kadir urges all stakeholders in waste management and environmental protection to leverage Ogun State’s initiative and redirect focus towards building an inclusive, data-backed, and economically viable waste management system.
MAN restates its commitment to supporting collaborative, inclusive environmental policies that protect both people and the planet.
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