Stakeholders seek efficient upcycling practices to boost economy

Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, Michael Ehindero, has called for better upcycling practices to boost job creation and economic development. Speaking at this year’s edition of the Jameson Christmas tree lighting ceremony held at Ikeja City Mall in Lagos, he said in the spirit of embracing the circular economy, the firm is focusing more on practising sustainability across all levels of its operations.

“This is why we are embracing sustainability because we firmly believe this period will pass. Our mission goes beyond selling drinks, we want to create an economy around what we do. This year has been tough for businesses with the currency devaluation and rising cost of living but we have kept faith with our consumers. We have even introduced new products to meet consumers at their price points. It hasn’t been an easy year business-wise but we believe things will get better in the new year,” he said.
 
Special adviser on climate change and circular economy to the Lagos state governor, Titilayo Oshodi, applauded Jameson for repurposing the bottles, adding that they would have affected the environment if left unchecked.

She added that more FMCGs are beginning to transition to bottle use, ditching plastics and styrofoam, explaining that the emerging economy presents significant job opportunities and better use of green technology.
   
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, also stressed the need for more eco-friendly materials usage to protect the environment. 
Founder, FABE International Foundation, Temitope Okunnu, calling for more manufacturers to tap into the circular economy more, said the partnership with Pernod Ricard would ensure that every bottle from the company’s brand would be recycled from 2025.