In an effort to champion environmental cleanliness and sustainability, the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) collaborated with the Seven-Up Bottling Company to advance the “Trash for Cash” initiative across the Surulere Local Government Area and Coker Community Development Area.
For the benefit of the Lagos State Government, LASEPA created this initiative to promote the trade of items like PET plastics, used engine oil, and outdated television sets in exchange for money. The campaign attracted a significant turnout, with individuals bringing bags filled with these recyclable materials.
Speaking to the press at the event, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, the General Manager of LASEPA, elaborated on the initiative’s objectives. She emphasised that the “Cash for Trash” advocacy aimed to deter the improper disposal of single-use plastics, thereby protecting the environment and promoting its cleanliness.
Dr. Fasawe underlined the recyclable nature of single-use plastics and the inherent value they carry when exchanged for cash. She highlighted the detrimental consequences of improper plastic waste disposal on health, the environment, and marine life, including clogged drains and increased flood occurrences. She expressed concern about the potential harm that fish ingesting plastics in the ocean might cause, which could eventually affect human health and contribute to diseases like cancer.
Dr. Fasawe iterated that the improper disposal of plastics was leading to fatalities. She emphasised that the initiative was a collaborative effort involving LASEPA, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), and the Association of Lagos Recyclers.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Fasawe urged individuals to bring their plastic bottles, used plastics, waste oil, and electronic waste to designated collection points in exchange for money. She reiterated the core principle of the initiative: that there is no such thing as waste, as one person’s waste can serve as another’s raw material, thereby creating a monetary value.
Dr Fasawe highlighted that the campaign’s impact had already extended across 12 local government areas, particularly within coastal communities. She emphasised that the current administration, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is steadfast in its commitment to moving towards a circular economy and involving citizens in this transformation.
She issued a stern warning against improper waste disposal into drainage channels, reinforcing the state’s zero-tolerance policy towards such practices.
Kenise Hill, the Deputy Economic and Political Chief at the US Consulate General in Lagos, expressed support for LASEPA’s efforts in tackling plastic waste. Hill commended the initiative for addressing a common problem: the disposal of waste that often ends up polluting streets and waterways, ultimately impacting health and the environment. She lauded the model as one that could serve as a national blueprint.
The event culminated in the inauguration of the Surulere Zonal Office of LASEPA by Dr. Omobolaji Gaji, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Environmental Service. This marked the establishment of the 20th zonal office of the agency.
The event was graced by local government officials, development partners, representatives from civil society organisations, members of the diplomatic corps, and selected students.
