Anambra Launches Phase Two of Plastic Waste Recovery Challenge

In a determined effort to combat plastic pollution and foster sustainable development, the Anambra State Government has launched the second phase of the All Anambra Communities Plastic Waste Recovery Challenge. The initiative sets an ambitious target of recovering 100,000 tonnes of plastic waste while creating over 5,000 indirect green jobs.

Led by the Ministry of Environment, the initiative was unveiled in Awka by the Commissioner for Environment, Dr Felix Odimegwu, during a press briefing held to mark World Environment Day 2025, themed “Ending Plastic Pollution.”

“This year’s theme speaks directly to the challenges we face in Anambra, where plastic waste severely threatens our environment, waterways, public spaces, and, most importantly, public health,” Dr Odimegwu stated. “We are taking deliberate and structural action to confront this crisis.”

Legal Foundation for Reform

Dr Odimegwu highlighted that the programme is underpinned by the recently enacted Anambra State Environmental Management, Protection, and Administrative Law 2024, which is widely regarded as the most comprehensive environmental legislation in the state’s history. The law offers a cohesive framework for regulation, enforcement, public health protection, and sustainable growth.

Strategic Interventions

The Ministry has outlined several key measures, including:

• Institutionalising the Plastic Waste Recovery Challenge, now in its second year.

• Establishing plastic sorting and recycling centres in all Local Government Areas.

• Requiring plastic waste bins in public spaces such as markets, schools, parks, and motor parks.

• Introducing Plastic-to-Product innovation hubs and community-based buy-back centres.

• Phasing out single-use plastic bags in favour of biodegradable alternatives.

Strengthened Enforcement

The government is also stepping up enforcement in the following areas:

• Illegal Waste Disposal: Dumping waste in unauthorised areas is now a punishable offence.

• Open Burning of Waste: Prohibited due to its harmful environmental and health effects.

• Waste Segregation: Markets, institutions, and businesses must provide separate bins for plastics, organics, and other waste types.

• Non-compliance with ESHMP Standards: All development projects must now comply with the Environmental, Social, Health and Management Plan (ESHMP).

Also Read: 2025 World Environment Day: Kano Urges Joint Action on Plastic Pollution

Upholding Global Best Practices

To align with international environmental standards, the Ministry has also introduced:

• Sustainable infrastructure design codes, including requirements for 35% green space, ventilation, and water access.

• Community desilting efforts and flood mitigation planning.

• Installation of catchment pits to minimise run-off and erosion.

• Statewide tree planting and urban forestry initiatives across all 21 LGAs.

• Integration of climate resilience criteria into project approvals.

Sanctions for Violators

Under the 2024 Environmental Law and related regulations, offenders face stiff penalties, including:

• Fines ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦1,000,000.

• Temporary closure or revocation of operational permits.

• Compulsory community service under Ministry supervision.

• Prosecution through the Environmental Court Division.

“There will be no exceptions or immunity. Environmental degradation is a crime against future generations,” Dr Odimegwu warned.

Governance Beyond Politics

Responding to concerns that the initiative may be politically motivated ahead of the 2025 gubernatorial elections, the Commissioner reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to an apolitical approach.

“Environmental governance is not an electoral project. It is a legal mandate, a public health necessity, and a moral duty. We will continue this work without fear or favour,” he said.

A Collective Responsibility

In closing, Dr Odimegwu called on residents to embrace a shared sense of responsibility:

“We are dealing with the consequences of years of neglect. The choices we make now will determine the Anambra of the future. Let us act together and with urgency to end plastic pollution and safeguard the health and dignity of our communities.”