By Ayomide Otitoju
The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has reiterated its commitment to achieving zero waste in Lagos State, aligning with global efforts to minimize waste generation and maximize resource recovery.
Speaking on the International Zero Waste Day, themed “Towards Zero Waste in Fashion and Textiles”, LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, emphasized the urgent need for sustainable waste management practices. He noted that the agency continues to implement innovative strategies to reduce landfill dependency, increase recycling rates, and promote responsible waste disposal among residents.
“The International Zero Waste Day reminds us of our collective responsibility to protect the environment by adopting sustainable waste management practices. At LAWMA, we are fully committed to implementing policies and programs that support zero waste principles, including waste sorting, recycling, and waste-to-energy initiatives. However, for these efforts to be successful, every Lagosian must take ownership of their role in ensuring proper waste disposal and environmental responsibility,” Gbadegesin stated.
LAWMA’s Zero-Waste Initiatives
Gbadegesin highlighted key initiatives driving LAWMA’s zero-waste agenda, including the expansion of the Lagos Recycle initiative, promotion of circular economy practices, and stricter enforcement of environmental laws.
“Over the years, we have intensified our recycling programs to ensure that a significant portion of waste generated in Lagos is diverted from landfills. Through our partnerships with recycling firms and the implementation of the Adopt-a-Bin program, we are actively encouraging waste sorting and fostering a culture of recycling among households and businesses,” he explained.
In line with this year’s theme, Gbadegesin announced decisive steps to address textile waste, revealing that fabric waste constitutes approximately 8% of the 13,000 tonnes of daily waste generated in Lagos.
“LAWMA plans to ban textile waste from all landfills in the state. We will collaborate with Tejuosho Market in Yaba to collect textile waste for transfer to recycling companies. Additionally, students at the LAWMA Academy are being trained to upcycle textile waste into practical products, promoting sustainability and creating economic opportunities for residents,” he disclosed.
Waste-to-Wealth and Marine Cleanup Efforts
LAWMA has continued expanding its Waste-to-Wealth programs, converting organic waste into compost and other useful by-products. Gbadegesin noted that organic waste, which constitutes a large percentage of total waste, is now being processed for agricultural use, while plastic, aluminum, and glass waste are being recycled through partnerships with the private sector.
Furthermore, LAWMA’s marine waste team has intensified cleanup operations along Lagos’ waterways, particularly at Five Cowries Creek and other flood-prone areas, to clear waste and prevent environmental hazards.
Call for Community Participation
Reaffirming LAWMA’s zero-tolerance policy on environmental infractions, Gbadegesin urged Lagosians to support the zero-waste vision by complying with waste management laws, embracing recycling, and ensuring proper waste disposal through designated PSP operators.
“Community participation remains a key factor in sustaining a cleaner and healthier Lagos. Together, we can make significant progress towards a waste-free future,” he concluded.
