As a way to further demonstrate its dedication to environmental sustainability, the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) on Saturday expanded its “Cash for Trash” initiative to the Surulere area of the State.
This was said at a simultaneous event that also saw the LASEPA Surulere Zonal Office open for business.
By implementing the Circular Economy and Waste-to-Value Model, the “Cash4Trash” initiative is poised to usher in a transformative era for Lagos, according to Dr. Tajudeen Gaji, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of the Environment, Office of Environmental Services.
According to reports, Dr. Gaji urged the residents of Coker-Aguda and Surulere to understand the group power they have in influencing a safer and more prosperous future.
He emphasized that individuals can help make Lagos a cleaner place by embracing environmentally friendly behaviors like proper waste disposal, cutting back on single-use plastics, water conservation, and supporting eco-friendly practices.
Dr. Gaji also mentioned that initiatives are being made under the leadership of Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu to work with private sector partners in order to recognize locals for adopting these practices and provide social support to the most vulnerable citizens.
He also emphasized how recycling and resource efficiency could help micro, small, and medium-sized businesses in Lagos.
He supported cooperative projects for upcycling and recycling waste into useful resources because they would support regional businesses and advance sustainable practices.
In line with this, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, the general manager of LASEPA, described the agency’s multifaceted strategy for environmental protection.
She went into more detail about the “Trash for Cash” initiative’s mission to fight improper single-use plastic disposal and stop pollution.
She emphasized the dedication of LASEPA to enforcing laws and regulations pertaining to environmental protection, including sanctions against those who discharge waste into open gutters.
Fasawe highlighted the opening of the 20th zonal office for LASEPA as part of the organization’s 2023 Vision.
The goal of this cutting-edge Surulere Zonal Office is to improve regional environmental responsiveness.
Fasawe also emphasized LASEPA’s role in environmental sustainability education and advocacy, focusing particularly on schoolchildren through programs like the “Trash for Cash” program.
The US Consulate General in Lagos’ Kenise Hill praised LASEPA’s efforts to manage waste and reduce pollution.
As a result of the agency’s model’s favorable effects on the environment and public health, Hill praised it and claimed that it has the potential to be adopted nationally.
Furthermore, Mr. Segun Ogunleye, General Manager of Marketing at Seven-Up Bottling Company, disclosed the company’s partnership with LASEPA to fight plastic pollution and foster sustainable growth through recycling programs.
