International Day of Zero Waste: Africa Must Race Towards a Sustainable Future

As the world grapples with the escalating waste crisis, the International Day of Zero Waste emerges as a beacon of hope, emphasizing the urgent need for a shift towards a circular economy.

This day is not just a call to action but a celebration of the strides made in waste management and a reminder of the journey ahead, particularly in regions like Nigeria and Africa where waste management remains a pressing challenge.

Zero Waste Day underscores the critical need to bolster waste management globally and promote sustainable production and consumption practices.

It’s a day that highlights the importance of viewing waste not as an endpoint but as a valuable resource that can be reintegrated into the economy, thus reducing the environmental footprint and fostering economic growth.

In Nigeria, the observance of Zero Waste Day is particularly significant. With a population of about 200 million, the country generates approximately 1.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, of which less than 10% is recycled.

The day serves as a reminder of the country’s commitment to improving its waste management infrastructure, addressing pollution, and enhancing public awareness.

Nigeria’s approach to waste management has been characterized by challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, poor behavioral attitudes, and insufficient funding.

However, recent efforts have seen the unveiling of a National Roadmap on Solid Waste Management, aiming to address these issues comprehensively.

Despite these efforts, as of 2018, around 59% of waste in Nigeria was managed informally, with only about 4% being collected by the government.

This highlights the need for improved policies and systems to ensure that waste is not just collected but also effectively recycled and repurposed.

The waste situation in Africa mirrors that of Nigeria, with only 4% of waste currently being recycled. The continent generates 125 million tonnes of municipal solid waste annually, a figure expected to double by 2025.

This rapid increase in waste generation calls for immediate action to prevent further environmental degradation and capitalize on the socio-economic opportunities that proper waste management presents.

The International Day of Zero Waste is a rallying point for governments, communities, industries, and individuals to embrace zero-waste initiatives.

For Nigeria and the rest of Africa, this means investing in waste collection services, promoting recycling and recovery, and encouraging waste prevention. It’s about building a future where waste is a resource that contributes to the well-being of society and the health of the planet.

In conclusion, the International Day of Zero Waste is more than just a day of awareness; it’s a day of commitment to a zero-waste future. As we reflect on the latest facts and figures, let’s also remember the potential for innovation and growth that lies in our waste.

Let’s work together to transform our approach to waste management in Nigeria and across Africa, for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable tomorrow.