Promoting environmental awareness, sustainable practices
In a bid to promote environmental consciousness and sustainable waste management, the Oyo State Government, in partnership with Mottainai Recycling Ltd, unveiled a state-of-the-art recycling hub in the Ojoo terminal, Ibadan, on Monday.
The launch event featured key speakers, including Mrs. Ahmed B.D., Director of Environment at Akinyele Local Government, who emphasized the hub’s mission to raise awareness among traders, market women, and the public about climate change.
She underscored the dangers and consequences of irresponsible waste disposal and urged market women to adopt waste sorting practices while refraining from disposing of waste improperly.
The Chief Operating Officer, Ms. Oluwaseun Fasuhanmi, revealed that the initiative stemmed from a genuine commitment to maintaining the cleanliness of Oyo State.
She noted that this unveiling was a part of the activities planned for World Cleanup Day 2023.
Ms. Fasuhanmi mentioned that this recycling hub marked the second of its kind in the state, with the first being introduced in Iseyin Local Government a few months prior.
Ms. Fasuhanmi emphasized the project’s broader goal of inspiring individuals to embrace environmentally-friendly lifestyle choices, positioning waste management as a shared responsibility that contributes to a greener and more sustainable future.
Chief Sustainability Officer, Ms. Deborah Fadeyi, highlighted the uniqueness of the World Cleanup Day event held at Ojoo Market.
She pointed out that the introduction of this innovative hub aimed to empower youth and educate market users on the art of converting waste into valuable resources, fostering opportunities for wealth creation.
The initiative brings waste infrastructure closer to the people, discouraging improper disposal that can lead to flooding, particularly during the rainy season.
Ms. Fadeyi expressed, “The hub’s objective is to promote a sustainable environment, generate employment, and encourage the Ojo community to adopt recycling as an effective waste management practice with financial incentives, potentially fueling an environmentally conscious movement.”
The initiative’s impact was evident as approximately 2,000 kilograms of recyclable materials, including plastics, cartons, and aluminum cans, were successfully collected through collaboration with volunteers and stakeholders.
The event witnessed the presence of representatives from the Ministry of Environment, Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) from Akinyele local government, Youth Corps Members, Mottainai Ambassadors, and volunteers from various non-governmental organizations.
E-signed by:
Prince Dotun Oyelade
Commissioner for Information and Orientation
Oyo State
September 25, 2023
