Anambra State Government Takes Bold Step to Combat Plastic Waste Pollution

From OMAH, Ngozi, Awka

 The Anambra State Government has launched a comprehensive initiative to tackle plastic waste pollution, a major environmental challenge facing the state. According to the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Felix Odimegwu, the government has deployed a large team of plastic waste pickers across the state to collect and remove plastic waste from the environment.

This effort has already yielded significant results, with thousands of plastic waste removed from the environment. The Ministry of Environment has also been actively engaging citizens on proper environmental practices to curb plastic waste pollution.

This initiative is part of the government's broader commitment to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development. The importance of addressing plastic waste pollution was highlighted during the 2025 World Environment Day celebration at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, themed "Together We Can Beat Plastic Pollution."

The Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Carol Arinze-Umeobi, emphasized the need for collective action to mitigate the impact of human activities on the environment, such as global warming, air and water pollution, and deforestation. The Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Professor Kevin Okoli, echoed this sentiment, calling for concerted efforts to check the indiscriminate disposal of plastics, which poses significant threats to ecosystems, wildlife, and human health.

He expressed optimism that with global participation in World Environment Day celebrations, the vision of a healthier environment can be achieved. The Anambra State Government's initiative is a step in the right direction, and it is hoped that this effort will inspire more actions towards a cleaner and healthier environment.