George George Idowu
In an innovative move to address Lagos’ mounting waste management challenges, Tetra Pak and WeCyclers have teamed up to launch a new recycling scheme that rewards residents for recycling used beverage cartons (UBCs).
The initiative, designed to clean up the city and create economic opportunities, has already garnered widespread enthusiasm from Lagos residents.
The scheme, unveiled at a community event on Lagos Island, invites residents to collect their used juice and milk cartons and deposit them at designated WeCyclers kiosks. In return, they receive immediate cash payments based on the weight of the cartons they recycle. This straightforward process not only helps reduce litter but also provides locals with a new, sustainable income source.
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The initiative addresses two critical issues in Lagos: the accumulation of UBC waste in landfills and the lack of economic opportunities for many residents. Beverage cartons, which are often discarded carelessly, contribute to the city’s waste crisis, but by incentivizing recycling, this program encourages residents to manage their waste more responsibly. Simultaneously, it offers a financial benefit, giving people a chance to earn money through environmentally friendly actions.
Experts believe this initiative is a game-changer for waste management in Lagos, which has long struggled with inefficient waste disposal systems. By turning waste into a valuable resource, Tetra Pak and WeCyclers are creating a model that could inspire similar efforts in other cities facing waste management challenges.
At the recently concluded Propak West Africa event in Lagos, Haithem Debbiche, Managing Director of Tetra Pak West Africa, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainability.
“Our goal in Nigeria is to develop sustainable recycling solutions and a low-carbon circular economy. To achieve this, we need to strengthen the recycling value chain and support the local recycling industry. This partnership with WeCyclers, along with other key stakeholders, is a step towards that goal,” he said.
While the initiative is still in its early stages, the initial response from residents suggests it has the potential to make a significant impact. If successful, the scheme could expand to other parts of Nigeria and serve as a model for other developing nations struggling with waste management.
This innovative approach not only offers a solution to Lagos’ waste issues but also highlights the importance of collaboration between private companies and local communities in driving sustainable change. With strong local support and a focus on long-term environmental benefits, the Tetra Pak-WeCyclers partnership is a promising example of how waste can be transformed into an economic asset, while making cities cleaner and more sustainable.
