A coalition of twelve Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has called on the Lagos State Government (LASG) to halt its plans to construct a waste-to-energy incinerator plant in Epe.
At a national press conference in Lagos, these groups, which advocate for a toxic-free, zero waste environment, stressed the need for LASG to implement zero waste strategies instead.
These strategies include waste reduction, source segregation, recycling, composting, and reuse programs, which they argue are more environmentally friendly and economically efficient alternatives to incineration.
Key Points from the CSOs’ Position:
Zero Waste Strategies: The CSOs emphasize the need for reducing waste generation at the source, segregating waste, recycling, composting, and implementing reuse
programs.
Investment in Research: They advocate for investments in research and development of waste management technologies that prioritize environmental protection, public health, and social equity.
Phase-Out Non-Recyclables: Products and materials that are difficult to recycle should be phased out and replaced with alternative materials or models of delivery.
Broader Consultation: The CSOs urge LASG to engage in broader public consultations, involving environmental CSOs, waste management experts, and impacted
communities.
They stress the importance of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) throughout the project lifecycle.
Participating Organizations:
Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADev)
Pan African Vision for the Environment (PAVE)
Sustainable Environment Development Initiative
Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF)
Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN)
Green Knowledge Foundation (GKF)
Centre for Earth Works (CFEW)
Lekeh Development Foundation
Community Action Against Plastic Waste (CAPws)
Policy Alert
Young Farmers Network
Ecocykle
Call to Action:
The CSOs invite concerned citizens, environmental organizations, and stakeholders to join in their efforts to advocate for a cleaner and healthier Lagos, emphasizing the importance of collective action to protect the environment for future generations.
These organizations believe that adopting zero waste strategies and fostering community participation will lead to more sustainable and equitable waste management practices in Lagos State.
