SEF launches innovative digital drive to transform plastic waste into economic and environmental gains

By Abdullahi Lukman

In a groundbreaking move to tackle plastic pollution and promote sustainable development, Splendour Empowerment Foundation (SEF), a Nigerian NGO, has unveiled a community-led project that leverages advanced digital technology to convert plastic waste into valuable economic resources.

The announcement was made by SEF Executive Director Mrs. Vera Abisoye in Abuja, highlighting how the initiative integrates mobile collection platforms and digital applications to revolutionize waste management and recycling in both urban and rural communities across Nigeria.

Nigeria faces a significant plastic waste challenge, generating approximately 2.5 million tons annually.

Improper disposal of plastic clogs waterways, worsens flooding, pollutes the environment, and contributes to adverse health effects.

SEF’s project aims to address these issues by empowering local communities to actively participate in waste collection and recycling through accessible digital tools.

The innovative platform allows community members to log and track waste collection activities in real-time, offering detailed data on volumes, types of waste, and collection locations.

This data is securely recorded on digital ledgers to ensure transparency, combat “greenwashing,” and boost confidence among donors and investors supporting the initiative.

Mrs. Abisoye explained that digital dashboards will provide stakeholders with visual reports and key performance indicators, enabling efficient monitoring and continuous improvement of recycling efforts.

The technology also facilitates streamlined reporting and enhances the overall operational efficiency of waste management systems.

Beyond technology, SEF’s model focuses heavily on community engagement.

The foundation conducts training programs that equip residents with knowledge on waste sorting, recycling techniques, and the use of digital platforms.

This participatory approach not only improves local environmental conditions but also creates economic opportunities by enabling the sale of recycled materials and plastic credits.

“The participatory model empowers communities to take ownership of their environment, fostering a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility,” said Mrs. Abisoye.

The initiative’s environmental impact is expected to be significant. By diverting plastic waste from landfills and incineration, the project reduces greenhouse gas emissions linked to waste disposal, contributing to Nigeria’s broader climate goals.

Additionally, improving waste management reduces flooding risks by preventing clogged drainage systems, a major problem in Nigerian cities.

SEF’s approach also addresses social challenges connected to resource scarcity and environmental degradation, which often exacerbate conflicts and displacement in vulnerable communities.

By promoting sustainable waste practices, the foundation hopes to reduce such pressures and support peaceful coexistence.

The foundation is actively seeking partnerships with government agencies, international NGOs, and private sector stakeholders to secure funding and scale the initiative nationwide and potentially across other regions facing similar environmental crises.

As plastic pollution continues to threaten ecosystems and human health globally, SEF’s integration of digital innovation with community empowerment offers a promising model for sustainable waste management and economic development in emerging economies.