At a National Beach Clean-up Day held recently, Alpha Beach in Lagos witnessed a concerted effort by environmental advocates, volunteers and some members of the media, to combat plastic pollution.
Their efforts were geared at shedding light on the critical role beach clean-ups play in addressing climate change.
Underscoring the urgency of proper waste management, Mrs. Olapeju Ibekwe, the Chief Executive Officer, Sterling One Foundation, emphasized the pivotal role of beach clean-up in environmental sustainability.
She also stressed the interconnectedness between environmental conservation and individual well-being needed to be brought to forefront to draw attention to alarming predictions of increased plastic pollution in oceans by 2050.
Beach clean-ups, she noted, like the one at Alpha Beach, are crucial initiatives that contribute directly to climate resilience, mitigating the impact of pollution and fostering a hygienic environment for the community.
Ibekwe also noted that the Saturday clean-up marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s environmental efforts to address the pervasive issue of plastic pollution.
She added that proper management of waste is not only essential for tidying immediate surroundings, but is also crucial step towards safeguarding the well-being of future generations of any country.
Ibekwe also noted that with alarming predictions of increased plastic pollutions, beach clean-ups, such as the National Clean-up Day, serve as a tangible initiatives that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of coastal areas, but also to contribute to the broader goal of creating a hygienic and sustainable environment.
Ibekwe also stressed that her foundation looks ahead with a steadfast commitment and a vision for more impactful initiatives, aiming to raise awareness and bring about tangible changes nationwide.
Also speaking at the Alpha Beach, the State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who was represented by his Special Adviser, Mr. Oladimosu Rotimi-Akodu, echoed a call for unity in addressing environmental challenges.
While acknowledging current obstacles, Wahab expressed a keen interest in ongoing collaboration with diverse organizations, envisioning regular cleanups throughout the state as a proactive measure to tackle environment concerns.
“We remain resolute in our ambition to transform Lagos State into a plastic-free environment,” Wahab affirmed.
