The United Nations, Global Environment Facility Small Grant and the Digital Peers international have collaborated to combat the menace of plastic waste pollution in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, and Nasarawa State.
According to the international organisations, plastic waste is no longer just an environmental problem – it is a social, economic and public health challenge.
This was disclosed at the second phase of the environmental initiatives project titled, ‘Deploying the Power of IT-Engaged Youths in Effective Plastic Use and Plastic Waste Management 2.0,’ supported by the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme.
Communities in the FCT and Nasarawa State have been marked for the project to confront the growing plastic waste crisis in Nigeria through youth leadership, digital innovation, and community-driven environmental action.
Addressing journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, former Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and National Coordinator, Digital Peers international, Mrs Odusote Ibukun, noted that plastic waste pollution has continued to escalate at an alarming rate.
“Plastic waste is no longer just an environmental problem; it is a social, economic, and public health challenge,” she said.
“We remain convinced that young people are central to the solution. They are adaptable, digitally savvy, creative, and courageous enough to challenge existing norms.
“When equipped with the right skills and opportunities, they can turn the tide against plastic pollution and drive innovations that transform their communities.”
Youths with the best ideas on how to manage plastic waste would be given financial and other supports by the organisations.
UN, Global Environment Facility, DPI collaborate to combat plastic waste in FCT, Nasarawa