The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) on Thursday said that it had increased its waste collection capacity across the state.
LAWMA’s Managing Director, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, revealed this during a news conference on climate action through waste de-carbonisation and co-processing technology.
The event took place in Ijora, Lagos. Gbadegesin was represented by Dr Essien Nsuqbiq, Director of Waste Management Research, Statistics and Policy Development.
The conference was held in partnership with the University of Lagos (UNILAG), LAFARGE, and LAWMA, among others.
The conference is also an initiative of TETFund Centre of Excellence in Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Management (TCEBCEM), UNILAG.
It involves the Centre for Environment Human Resources Development (CENHURD), UNILAG, and the UNILAG Green Hub.
Gbadegesin stated that waste management is a shared responsibility globally.
“We have increased our collection capacity. It won’t be instant, but you’ll notice improvements as we progress.
“LAWMA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with LAFARGE and initiated school advocacy for a waste-free Lagos,” he said.
Speaking on de-carbonisation, Gbadegesin explained that most carbon emissions originate from organic sources.
“In waste management, most carbon comes from organic waste. Carbon may come from other sources, but organic waste is the easiest to decarbonise.
“That’s why we are creating synergies. In 2022 and 2023, we collaborated with LAFARGE on an experiment,” he said.
The experiment assessed the proportion of Lagos waste that is non-recyclable and combustible.
He emphasised the importance of strategic collaboration in achieving Lagos’ decarbonisation goals.
“We have also completed studies with UNILAG and other universities focused on de-carbonisation.
“Lagos waste data shows that if 50 per cent of organic waste is used for fertiliser, bio-gas, or bio-fuel, 50 per cent remains.
“If LAFARGE takes 30 per cent, and recycling handles 10 per cent, only about 10 per cent remains.
“In the end, this will significantly improve the environment,” he added.
Dr Abdulganiy Adelopo, Co-ordinator of Green Hub, UNILAG, said people are key to solving environmental problems.
“Our research is inclusive. We consider the entire waste process, from generation to disposal,” he said.
He introduced the idea of a Nigerian decarbonisation order, where waste has both solution and value.
“Once waste is valued, people will better appreciate its management. Even after recycling ends, waste can still be useful,” he noted.
Adelopo said UNILAG is committed to using technology for job creation and youth empowerment.
“This is why we work with industry. Every part of the waste chain has potential.
“Your waste is your power. Don’t discard it — use it to add value and improve the climate,” he encouraged.
He announced a one-day seminar on de-carbonisation education.
“This inclusive seminar will be held on April 22 at UNILAG,” he said.
According to him, the seminar aims to unite stakeholders to address challenges posed by 32 million tonnes of annual waste in Nigeria.
Its theme will be ‘Sustainable Climate Action in Nigeria Through Waste De-carbonisation and Co-Processing Technology’.
UNILAG’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, will serve as chief host of the seminar.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics and Research, Prof. Bola Oboh, will be the host.
Emeritus Professor of Chemistry, Babajide Alo, will deliver the keynote address.
Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, CEO of Lafarge Africa Plc, will chair the event.
Michael Deelen, Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lagos, will co-chair.
NAN
