By Divine Macaulay, in Kaduna
As global efforts to mitigate climate change continue, environmental activist Olanike Olugboji-Daramola has raised concerns about the dangers of plastic waste, emphasizing the need for improved waste disposal strategies to combat this issue.
During an event celebrating World Environment Day at Judeen International School in Mando, Igabi LGA today, Olugboji who is the Executive Director of the Women Initiative for Sustainable Environment (WISE), urged children, individuals, governments, and industries to enhance their efforts in addressing plastic pollution.
Represented by Mrs. Lillian, she expressed concern that despite their importance in the economy and daily life, plastics, particularly single-use plastics, pose significant negative consequences for both the environment and human health.
“How can we use a plastic item produced after many hours of work and then dispose of it immediately?” she asked.
Olugboji- Daramola emphasized that plastic pollution has escalated into a global crisis affecting ecosystems, biodiversity, human health, and the climate. “We cannot simply recycle our way out of this problem; we must reduce, redesign, and rethink our use of plastics.”
She warned that the negative impacts of poor plastic waste disposal could be severe if not adequately addressed through infrastructural development, innovative business solutions, and increased individual awareness and action.
“The plastic bottle we throw away daily remains in the environment. If we can demonstrate this to people, we can also promote behavioral change,” she noted.
“We must consider the life cycle of every plastic item we encounter, ensuring responsible disposal, as our carelessness could have far-reaching consequences for humanity, wildlife, and the environment.
” Therefore, this year’s theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution,” serves as a timely reminder and call to action.
Olugboji stressed the importance of leading by example by switching to reusable bottles, lunch boxes, and cups. She encouraged the leadership of Judeen School to adopt a ‘no plastic’ policy, banning single-use plastics on school premises and promoting eco-friendly alternatives.
Earlier in the event, the Principal of Judeen International School expressed his delight in hosting WISE for World Environment Day and praised the organization for its consistent efforts in maintaining a clean, healthy, and comfortable environment for children. “Our students will now learn the importance of environmental cleanliness and will teach their parents and friends,” he said.
As part of the event, children participated in activities such as tree planting around strategic areas of the school compound to foster a greener and cleaner environment.
