POLLUTION: NES Urges Nigerians to Join Crusade Against Plastic Waste

By Praise Chinecherem

Nigerian Environmental Society (NES) has urged Nigerians to join forces against plastic waste.

NES Anambra state Chairman, Dr Emman Ude Akpeh, who made the call in his monthly message for June, described plastic waste as the “most critical challenges of our time”, which deserve urgent action.

“As we step into June, a month dedicated to global environmental action, I am reminded of the power of collective effort.

“In Anambra State and across Nigeria, the evidence is undeniable: choked drainages, polluted waterways, and ecosystems straining under the weight of our plastic dependency.

“This World Environment Day (June 5th), under the theme ‘Beat Plastic Pollution,’ calls us to confront one of the most critical challenges of our time – plastic waste.

The NSE Chair also identified the willingness and capacity to act as critical to addressing the scourge of plastic waste. “This month, let’s transform awareness into action. Here’s how you can lead the charge.

“Advocate for change by engaging policymakers and businesses to implement and enforce regulations on single-use plastics and promote sustainable packaging alternatives.

“Let’s mobilize our communities by organizing clean-ups, plastic-free market initiatives, and school programs to reduce waste and foster eco-conscious habits.”

He called on the citizens to champion reuse and recycling. “Support local recycling efforts, waste segregation campaigns, and innovations that repurpose plastic waste.

“Educate and inspire using every platform – social media, radio, town halls to highlight the dangers of plastic pollution and showcase solutions.

“This year, let’s spotlight progress: reusable bags, bamboo straws, refill stations, and community-led zero-waste projects prove that alternatives exist.

“Each small step – a bottle refused, a bin properly sorted among others adds up to monumental change.

“As we mark World Environment Day, I urge you to lead by example. Share your actions online with #BeatPlasticPollution and #NESAnambra.

“Together, we can redefine Anambra’s future—one free from plastic pollution. Here’s to a month of impactful strides for our planet,” Dr Ude Akpeh concluded.