The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) says claims it is taking steps to address the environmental impact of the state’s 1,040 tonnes of textile trash every day.
Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, made the comment on Monday in Lagos to commemorate International Zero Waste Day.
The theme of the Zero Waste Day is “Towards zero waste in fashion and textiles.”
Gbadegesin stated that LAWMA would take decisive action to address the environmental impact of textile waste in accordance with this year’s theme.
“Textile waste constitutes approximately eight per cent of the 13,000 tonnes of waste generated daily in Lagos.
“LAWMA plans to ban textile waste from all landfills in the state. We will be collaborating with Tejuosho Market in Yaba to collect textile waste for transfer to recycling companies.”
According to him, students at the LAWMA Academy are being trained to upcycle textile waste into practical products, promoting sustainable practices and creating economic opportunities for residents.
He reiterated the agency’s commitment to achieving zero waste in Lagos State, aligning with global efforts at minimising waste generation and maximising resource recovery.
Gbadegesin said the event underscored the urgent need for sustainable waste management practices.
“The International Zero Waste Day reminds us of our collective responsibility to protect the environment by adopting sustainable waste management practices.
“At LAWMA, we are fully committed to implementing policies and programmes that support zero waste principles, including waste sorting, recycling, and waste-to-energy initiatives.
“However, for these efforts to be successful, every Lagosian must take ownership of their role in ensuring proper waste disposal and environmental responsibility,” Gbadegesin said.