Building on the success of its initial phase in Southern Nigeria, TechnoServe has officially launched the Plastic Recycling Programme 2.0 (PReP 2.0), with financial backing from The Coca-Cola Foundation.
The objective of this new phase is to further develop an inclusive recycling model, enhance livelihoods, and promote environmentally sustainable practices throughout Nigeria.
As per the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), Nigeria is responsible for generating around 2.5 million metric tons of plastic waste yearly, with Lagos alone contributing approximately 13,000 metric tons of solid waste each day. A significant portion of this waste contaminates waterways and communities, leading to serious environmental and public health challenges. With the PReP initiative, discarded materials are being repurposed into sources of income, employment, and environmental renewal for many Nigerians.
Since its launch, PReP has notably impacted the recycling landscape in Lagos and Anambra, diverting more than 59,000 metric tons of plastic waste, creating and improving the livelihoods of over 10,000 individuals, and establishing a robust network of 51 aggregators to drive inclusive growth and sustainability within the recycling sector. The program has equipped, trained, and offered financial support to empower women and youth-led businesses to spearhead a comprehensive recycling value chain.
“These outcomes signify more than mere numbers; they represent compelling narratives of resilience and change,” remarked Adesuwa Akinboro, Nigeria Country Director for TechnoServe. “Aggregators and collectors are evolving into business owners, enhancing their livelihoods while simultaneously aiding their communities and reducing plastic pollution.”
The introduction of PReP 2.0 signifies a significant advancement in Nigeria’s commitment to building a sustainable recycling economy. With its expansion into Kano State in addition to Anambra and Lagos, this new initiative seeks to generate and enhance approximately 2,400 jobs and prevent 32,000 metric tons of plastic waste from entering the environment.
The program will endeavor to establish a more profitable, inclusive, and environmentally friendly recycling industry by:
● Fortifying partnerships among market stakeholders to ensure efficient, equitable, and safe recycling practices.
● Fostering a community of financially astute individuals to boost efficiency in collection and recycling efforts.
● Enhancing collaborations with financial entities, local governments, and private sectors to unlock funding and develop conducive conditions for progress.
“At The Coca-Cola Foundation, our aim is centered on facilitating environmental sustainability while empowering communities,” expressed Carlos Pagoaga, President of The Coca-Cola Foundation. “Through initiatives like PReP 2.0, we are committed to amplifying our impact, reducing plastic waste, minimizing emissions, and supporting thousands of livelihoods across Nigeria as we strive for a cleaner and more inclusive future.”
The initiative will also focus on promoting gender inclusivity, enhancing environmental education, and communicating behavior changes to ensure that women and youth continue to play pivotal roles in local recycling innovations.
As Nigeria works towards meeting its sustainability and environmental objectives, PReP 2.0 represents a prime example of how public-private partnerships can transform challenges into economic opportunities, fostering both community well-being and resilience.
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