Centre urges policies enforcement to achieve sustainable waste management

The Centre for Waste Management and Sustainable Resources (CWMRS), Federal University of Petroleum Resources (UPRE), Delta State, has called on governments to enforce policies that will enable the country to achieve sustainable waste management.

CWMRS Acting Director, Dr Akinyemi Ogunkeyede, made the call in Ibadan while speaking on the Zero Waste Campus Project, which is one of the flagship initiatives at FUPRE. He said the project, which was launched late last year in partnership with Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF) set a precedent for Nigerian universities to adopt sustainable waste management.

Ogunkeyede said: “Sustainability is everyone’s responsibility. From individuals reducing plastic use to governments enforcing policies, we all have a role to play. Waste is not waste—it is an untapped resource. If we harness it correctly, we can create a cleaner and more sustainable future for Nigeria.

“The Zero Waste Campus Project is one of our flagship initiatives at FUPRE, aimed at eliminating plastic pollution and embedding a sustainability culture. Launched in partnership with CODAF, it sets a precedent for Nigerian universities to adopt sustainable waste management. Through recycling, waste reduction, and eco-friendly alternatives, we are transforming FUPRE into Nigeria’s first zero-waste university.”

He disclosed that students are leading the change by reducing single-use plastics and participating in recycling programmes. The university management, particularly Vice-Chancellor, Prof Akpofure Rim-Rukeh, has been supportive, reinforcing the vision of a cleaner and greener FUPRE,” he said.

The Director, who was given the Meritorious Service Award by the Nigerian Environment Society (NES) Delta Chapter, said: “The award, presented at the 15th Edition of the Late Prof F.M.A Ukoli Environmental Workshop on November 29, 2024, recognises contributions to sustainable waste management and reinforces commitment to turning research into real-world impact.

“We are expanding our research into biodegradable alternatives, large-scale waste-to-energy projects, and community-based waste management models. We are also seeking industrial and governmental partnerships to commercialise our innovations.”