In recent years, Nigeria has experienced a shift in how it deals with waste, especially plastic recycling. Instead of being a major environmental issue, Plastic Waste is now a catalyst for Economic Development and social progress. The once daunting piles of plastic waste are now seen as opportunities for economic advancement that can improve the lives of individuals and communities by lifting them out of poverty. Plastic waste is a serious challenge in the country, with an increasing amount generated yearly. The country produces around 2.5 million metric tonnes of plastic waste annually, ranking ninth globally for its contribution to plastic pollution.
As the nation’s population exceeds 200 million and expands, this amount is projected to increase even further. However, this challenge presents a unique chance to establish a circular Economy that tackles environmental issues and builds a solid, interconnected value chain within the refuse management industry. Recent changes have made refuse management in the national economy increasingly noticeable. The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has recently raised litter evacuation fees in January 2024. This adjustment doubled the existing rates, demonstrating the expanding role of refuse management as a critical economic sector.
Recycling drives the economy with growing opportunities for all levels.
Although exact Revenue numbers are unavailable for this industry, refuse management is growing and boosting the national economy. Also, the Recycling process in the country has many different parts, with opportunities available for people at all levels. Whether individuals collect recyclable materials from the streets or others process them, there are various ways to earn income within the industry. It is common to see plastic pickers in major cities nationwide, their sacks slung over their shoulders or pushing collection carts, diligently removing plastics from public spaces. Their efforts contribute to a cleaner environment and support their livelihoods and families.
Furthermore, in a conversation with an AskNigeria reporter, Mr. Wahab Timileyin, a marketer at Clear Field Recycling Company in Lagos State, shed light on the current dynamics of the recycling industry in the country. According to him, “The recycling business is not like before when there was no competition, unlike now that many people have ventured into the business.” His observation reflects the growing awareness and participation in the recycling sector as more individuals and companies recognize the economic opportunities it presents.
The industry is profitable and in strong demand from international firms.
Mr. Timileyin emphasized the industry’s profitability, stating, “It is a lucrative business that many people don’t know; if you invest money into recycling, you will make more than what you expected.” His insight highlights the potential for returns on Investment in the recycling sector, an area that many Nigerians are just beginning to explore. He further noted that Chinese companies are the primary customers for recycled materials, which has helped stabilize the industry. “The business cannot collapse unless those companies stop producing,” Mr. Timileyin remarked, underscoring the strong demand from international markets that continues to drive growth in the region’s industry.
His comments offer a glimpse into the industry’s resilience and capacity to thrive, even amid increasing competition, as long as global players demand steady demand. This perspective is crucial in understanding the industry’s current and future landscape. As more local and international stakeholders invest in the sector, the industry is poised to address environmental challenges and contribute to the nation’s economy. However, While progress has been made, challenges still exist. The country is still facing environmental Pollution due to plastic refuse.
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Lastly, the food and beverage industry created the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA) in 2014 to address this issue. The FBRA is dedicated to finding effective ways to tackle plastic refuse through packaging, collection, and regenerating advancements. The coalition supports a strong Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system that would require producers to take responsibility for the environmental effects of their goods and promote a circular economy in the sector. Addressing plastic litter challenges requires a united effort from all sectors. Policymakers, industry players, non-profit groups, and individuals must work together to develop a cohesive action blueprint.