FG commissions reverse vending machine to tackle plastic pollution

The federal government of Nigeria on Thursday commissioned Plastic Waste Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) as the country continues to make inroads in the management of plastic waste through Circular Economy.

In a keynote address at the event, the Hon. Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal said the machines procured under the project, “Promoting Sustainable Plastics Value Chains through Circular Economy Practices,” were part of efforts towards tackling plastic pollution in the country.

He said, “Reverse vending machines offer several advantages, one of which is their contribution to recycling efforts. They enable the efficient collection of recyclable materials, reducing the need for raw materials to produce new containers. We see great opportunities already in the food and beverage industry in view of the interest of our vibrant youths in waste management.”

The Minister announced that the machines were locally fabricated in Nigeria and commended the Manufacturer, the CEO of Ecobarter Technologies, Ms Rita Idehai and her team for the innovation.

He expressed his appreciation to UNIDO and the Government of Japan for their unwavering support to Nigeria in addressing her numerous environmental challenges, particularly plastic pollution.

The pilot phase of the landmark project would be carried out in Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory.