The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) brought creative Nigerian youths together, put the problem of plastic pollution on the table, and unleashed amazing creativity to tackle the menace!
The event, was a Co-Creation Workshop on Campaign Materials for Reuse and Refill Systems organized by NESREA on Thursday in Abuja to promote sustainable alternatives to single-use water sachets.
Director General of NESREA, Prof. Innocent Barikor in his remarks identified the commonly used ‘pure water sachets’ as a primary source of plastic pollution in the country, citing NESREA efforts to address it through the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programme and Citizen Education.
Represented by the Director, Finance and Accounts, Mr. Sambo Abubakar, Prof. Barikor said the Agency aims to change citizen behaviour through creative education with evidence-based communication materials that promote refill and reuse systems as practical, accessible, and sustainable alternatives to water sachets.
Also speaking, the Director, Inspection and Enforcement, Dr. Christopher Beka said the workshop was part of the UNEP/ NESREA Small-Scale Funding Agreement on Tackling the Adverse Impacts of Linear Plastic Economy and Pollution in Nigeria.
He added that the campaign materials were expected to feature realistic alternatives such as water dispenser, fountains, and pipe –borne supply; emphasized producer responsibility in line with the EPR, and reflect the experiences of Nigerians.
In a presentation on Rethinking Water Consumption: Driving Behavioral Change Towards Reuse and Refill Solutions, Assistant Director Plastics, Engineer Chukwudi Nwabuisiaku said the upcoming nationwide campaign will focus on instilling discipline amongst citizens, piloting installing refill points in motor parks, schools, markets, and government facilities; promoting reusable bottles and low-cost access options, and encouraging consumers to choose sustainable hydration.
