By Rashidat Oladele
The Lagos State Government has unveiled a strategic economic plan that hinges on a direct and pragmatic approach, marked by a long-term commitment to entrepreneurship and job creation within the environmental sector.
This ambitious initiative was articulated during the inauguration of the “Trash for Cash” program, a collaborative effort between the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and the Seven Up Bottling Company, held in Surulere, Lagos, on Tuesday.
Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, the General Manager of LASEPA, underscored the state’s belief that sustainable economic growth is intrinsically linked to effectively managing the pressing issue of environmental degradation.
She emphasized the need for a profound reevaluation of how waste is both generated and managed, calling for a fundamental and radical shift in this regard.
Fasawe highlighted the government’s multifaceted policy interventions aimed at combating environmental pollution and conserving and replenishing natural resources.
Central to this effort is the imperative of proper waste collection, a pivotal step in Lagos’s journey towards becoming a zero-waste state.
In a bid to encourage active participation in waste management, Fasawe disclosed that individuals who deposit their waste at designated collection points stand to receive rewards.
This innovative approach not only promotes responsible waste disposal but also presents an opportunity for individuals to earn income through environmentally conscious actions.
Furthermore, Fasawe urged citizens to engage in waste collection campaigns, emphasizing the potential for financial gain while contributing to a cleaner environment.
LASEPA, she noted, collaborates with various sectors, including businesses, educational institutions, communities, and families, with the aim of fostering environmental awareness and empowering young people to drive positive change within their communities.
The global community has also recognized Lagos State’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges.
Kenise Hill, the U.S. Consulate Deputy Political and Economic Chief, affirmed the partnership between the United States Mission and the Lagos State Government in their joint efforts to combat air pollution. “We have been working with LASEPA on raising the air quality throughout the state,” Hill stated.
Additionally, Joanna Mai, Deputy Director of the Economic Division at the Taipei Trade Office in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, revealed that their office is collaborating with LASEPA to enhance the value chain within the circular economy.
This partnership reflects the international recognition of Lagos’s innovative approach to environmental sustainability and economic growth.
As Lagos State pioneers this holistic economic plan with a strong environmental focus, it sets a commendable example for sustainable development that other regions can look to emulate.
The Trash for Cash program and collaborative efforts with global partners demonstrate the state’s commitment to building a resilient and prosperous future while safeguarding its natural resources.