Oando Clean Energy Limited (OCEL), a division of Oando Plc, a prominent indigenous energy solutions provider in Africa, has partnered with Nigeria's Federal Ministry of Environment to host a significant workshop in Abuja. The event focused on advancing biodegradable technology and policy solutions to tackle the pervasive issue of single-use plastic waste across the nation.
The workshop saw the participation of crucial government representatives, regulatory bodies, and various industry stakeholders, as detailed in a company announcement.
Attendees included delegates from the Federal Ministry of Environment, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and Commissioners for Environment from different states.
Academics, other relevant agencies, and manufacturing sector representatives were also present, all converging to address the escalating problem of plastic waste leakage and to identify effective, scalable, and science-backed solutions.
Delivering the keynote speech, the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Lawal, articulated the severe consequences of plastic pollution on environmental integrity and agricultural productivity.
He pointed out how plastic debris obstructs water channels, deteriorates soil quality, and poses substantial health risks to livestock, which frequently ingest plastic items, leading to sickness or fatality. Furthermore, he stressed that plastic pollution disrupts ecological balance, threatens biodiversity, and introduces microplastics into the food chain, ultimately impacting human health.
Polymateria's Chief Strategy Officer, Andrew Webster, offered a detailed technical presentation, highlighting the company's proprietary Biotransformation technology and its applicability to Nigeria's specific climate conditions.
He explained that Nigeria's climate, characterised by high heat, humidity, moisture, and significant sun exposure, creates an ideal environment for the technology, accelerating the biodegradation process over a concise period. The plastic breaks down into a form that bacteria can readily consume, leaving behind only carbon dioxide, water, and biomass.
Webster further elaborated that the technology, which is integrated as a masterbatch additive during manufacturing at approximately 2 per cent, remains stable during its intended functional period. It is activated only by environmental factors such as UV light, heat, and air.
Once activated, the material converts into a bio-available wax that is entirely broken down by microorganisms, the statement clarified.
This innovative solution is designed to integrate seamlessly with current recycling infrastructures, ensuring that collected plastic materials can still undergo conventional processing without complications.
During the workshop, participants engaged in technical discussions, policy debates, and focused breakout sessions addressing standards, regulatory enforcement, and implementation strategies, underscoring the necessity for unified action throughout the plastic value chain.
In her concluding remarks, Dr. Bahijjahtu Abubakar, Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, urged all involved parties to collaborate closely on adopting the proposed framework and ensuring its nationwide implementation, with effective dissemination down to subnational levels.
She also encouraged academic institutions to spearhead research efforts that will facilitate the rapid acceptance and adaptation of biodegradable technologies within the country.
In her vote of thanks, Hadiza Adukonu, Vice President of Opportunity Maturation and New Ventures at Oando Clean Energy Limited, expressed gratitude to the Minister, Directors within the Federal Ministry of Environment, and all participants for their active involvement and support for the novel technology.
She advocated for the continuation of dialogue, particularly concerning the development of standards, policy reviews, and enforcement mechanisms to guarantee sustained progress.
The workshop concluded with a call for enduring collaboration among government bodies, the private sector, and technology providers to promote the adoption of innovative solutions that tackle plastic pollution while simultaneously fostering economic development.
Oando Clean Energy Limited reiterated its dedication to fostering cross- sectoral partnerships aimed at delivering scalable environmental solutions and supporting Nigeria's journey towards a more sustainable future.
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