FG seeks NGOs partnership to create awareness on circular economy

The Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal has called on non- governmental organizations to partner with the Federal Government to create awareness on the circular economy.

The Minister made the call at a sensitization workshop for NGOs on circular economy on Wednesday in Abuja.

The event was organized by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), in collaboration with the European Union (EU).

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Lawal, who was represented by the Director -General, NESREA, Dr. Innocent Barikor, said that the circular economy provided a pathway towards sustainable development.

He said that there was a need to build necessary synergy to ensure the country enjoys the benefits of a circular economy, being implemented through the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Program.

Barikor underscored the need to create more awareness on the menace of single-use plastics.

He also highlighted the significant steps the government has already taken to provide the policy and regulatory framework to tackle the problem.

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“The Draft National Guidelines for the implementation of EPR for plastic packaging, 2024 and the Draft National Environmental (Plastic Waste Control) Regulations, 2024 have been developed.

” Nationwide campaigns are ongoing and the government is collaborating with stakeholders to promote sustainable alternatives.

“As leaders in your communities, you are positioned to champion the message of a circular economy, educating the public on the importance of reducing, reusing and recycling plastic waste.

” We look up to you to inspire behavior change, advocate for sustainable practices and hold stakeholders accountable,” he said.

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Lawal stated that the sensitization exercise was to equip NGOs, which play important roles in community outreach, education, and grassroots action.

In a presentation, Mrs. Agharese Onaghiase, an EU facilitator, said the circular economy hinged on the principles of product redesign, waste reduction, reuse and recycling.

She urged NGOs to educate communities, collaborate with authorities on circular economy initiatives, contribute to innovative solutions through research and development.