The Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawal has assured the United Nation Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) of its commitment towards circular economy in management of plastic waste in Nigeria.
Balarabe who was ably represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mahmud Adam Kambari, disclosed this at the unveiling of Plastic Revised Vending Machine in National Assembly Complex aimed to kick-starting the fight against plastic pollution nation-wide.
The minister revealed that the vending machines are a cutting-edge solutions in waste management where individuals deposit bottles and other recyclable materials and earned financial reward in returns.
Balarabe also noted that beyond the environmental impact, the vending machine will promote the concept of circular economy for cleaner communities and economic opportunities for the citizens.
He disclosed that the machine was donated to the National Assembly in order to strengthen partnership and effective collaboration between the two arms of government and members being the representative of all Nigerians.
Balarabe urged members to donate similar machines to their constituencies to create jobs for youth and safeguard their environment.
The Chairman, House Committee on Environment, Hon. Julius Pondi and his members have pledged their unalloyed support toward the effective management of the Machine.
The UNIDO National Programme Officer, Dr. Osuji Otiu in his goodwill message stated that the vending machine is a Nigeria’s made product and urged the scale-up of the project for the effective management of plastic waste in country.
The Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Engr. Bahijjahtu Abubakar who represented the Permanent Secretary in her opening remarks thanked the UNIDO for supporting the Ministry in combating plastic waste in Nigeria.
She also stated that the NASS Complex was carefully and deliberately chosen for the unveiling being the symbol of Unity as well as members being the full representatives of all Nigerians.
Mr. Emeka Okechukwu from ecobarter Technologies demonstrated the functionality of the plastic vending machine during the official ceremony.
