The National Plastic Action Partnership (NPAP) has been officially launched in Abuja to address plastic pollution.
The NPAP aims to address the plastic pollution in Nigeria, promote circular economy practices, and collaborate with various stakeholders to tackle plastic waste from production to consumption and reuse.
The launch witnessed the presence of representatives from various high-profile organisations and government bodies, including the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Trade and Industry, NESERA, the Ambassador of Poland to Nigeria, UNIDO, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, Lagos Business School, World Bank, and UNIDO, among others.
Kristin Hughes, Director of Resource Circularity at World Economic Forum commended the Ministry of Environment for its collaboration with the Nigeria National Plastic Action Partnership (NPAP). Recognizing Nigeria’s potential to lead Africa in tackling plastic pollution, Hughes emphasized the country’s understanding of the importance of global leadership, which led to its participation in the Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP).
She acknowledged that plastic pollution is a multifaceted problem that requires both local and global attention. In this regard, the NPAP takes a locally driven approach to address plastic pollution, seeking partnerships with policy actors and directors within the plastic value chain in Nigeria
Ms Drita Dade from the World Bank highlighted the significant impact of plastic pollution on Nigeria.
She emphasized that while there are challenges associated with the use of plastics, there are also opportunities for transitioning to innovative practices.
“Tackling plastic pollution encourages the adoption of sustainable alternatives AND drives the development of innovative solutions in Nigeria. The World Bank recognizes the importance of supporting initiatives like the NPAP to facilitate the transition toward a more sustainable and plastic-conscious society,” she said.
