By Grace Samuel
The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Lagos Office of Climate Change and Circular Economy (OCCE) have announced a collaborative effort to establish a circular economy and advocacy as effective strategies in combating the growing menace of climate change in Lagos State.
Recognizing the significant challenge that climate change poses to the inhabitants and economy of the state, the joint initiative aims to address this concern through coordinated actions and sustainable practices.
The recently unveiled Lagos State Climate Action Plan 2020 – 2025 highlights that over half of the state’s 21 million residents reside in informal settlements, exposing them to considerable risks associated with climate change.
The Lagos State Adaptation and Resilience Plan (LCARP) estimates that the lack of action on climate concerns could result in a financial burden ranging from $22-29 billion, surpassing the state’s annual budget for the year 2022 by more than eleven times.
During a meeting between LAWMA and OCCE, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the managing director of LAWMA, underscored the importance of circularity as a sustainable solution to mitigate the growing effects of climate change on both the environment and the state’s economy.
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Recognizing climate change as a scientific issue, Dr. Gbadegesin emphasized the need for simplified understanding, with the Circular Economy serving as a practical approach.
The OCCE, with the goal of facilitating collaboration within the climate and circular economy ecosystem, aims to support the governor’s vision of achieving a zero-carbon Lagos by 2050.
Acknowledging the complexity of climate change and the necessity for collective efforts, OCCE emphasizes collaboration with stakeholders in the energy, waste, and transportation sectors to address greenhouse gas emissions.
The collaboration with LAWMA is part of OCCE’s broader efforts to promote circularity, create employment opportunities, and enhance the overall well-being of the state’s residents.
Dr. Gbadegesin expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing the critical role of managing solid waste in addressing climate change.
Both teams share a common goal and commitment to a circular economy and environmental sustainability, fostering excitement about the potential impact of their joint efforts.
