A Sustainable Solution: WACT-APM Terminals and GIVO Launch Solar-Powered Recycling Plant in Onne Community
The West Africa Container Terminal-APM Terminals Nigeria (WACT), in collaboration with Garbage In Value Out (GIVO), has unveiled a groundbreaking solar-powered recycling plant in Onne, Eleme Local Government Area, Rivers State. This initiative signifies a major stride towards environmental sustainability and community development, aligning with the Federal Government’s commitment to a cleaner environment, renewable energy adoption, and job creation. The innovative facility is engineered to transform plastic waste into reusable products, powered entirely by renewable solar energy. This dual approach addresses both environmental pollution and the growing need for sustainable energy solutions.
The launch of this facility represents a significant milestone for the Onne community and reflects WACT’s dedication to embracing eco-friendly practices. The partnership between WACT and GIVO provides the community with a sustainable solution to the pervasive challenge of plastic waste management. By establishing this recycling plant, the initiative empowers residents of Onne and neighboring communities with the opportunity to exchange plastic waste for value, creating a circular economy that benefits both the environment and the local population. This initiative also promotes economic activity and empowers residents, particularly the youth, who are actively involved in the plant’s operations. The project exemplifies the positive impact that can be achieved through collaborative efforts between corporations and communities.
The impetus for this project arose from a Needs assessment conducted in the Onne community in 2022. The assessment revealed environmental degradation as a primary concern, with plastic waste clogging drainage systems and posing a significant threat to the local ecosystem. This prompted WACT to seek a sustainable solution to eradicate plastic waste and transform it into a valuable resource. The recycling plant emerged as the ideal solution, providing a mechanism to collect plastic bottles and convert them into usable products, thereby directly addressing the community’s environmental challenges.
The recycling plant boasts an impressive capacity, capable of processing approximately 300 kilograms of plastic waste per day, translating to roughly 90 metric tonnes annually. Furthermore, the reliance on solar energy for all operations results in the avoidance of approximately 2,000 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year. This underscores the project’s significant contribution to mitigating climate change and promoting cleaner air for the community. The plant also generates employment opportunities, supporting around 50 indirect jobs and 15 direct jobs monthly. This provision of local employment contributes to the economic well-being of the community.
GIVO’s broader mission extends beyond simply recycling plastic waste. It focuses on creating sustainable infrastructure within communities that fosters a clean environment, empowers residents through job creation and incentives, and educates about the importance of environmental stewardship. This holistic approach ensures that the community understands and actively participates in maintaining a clean and healthy environment. By providing incentives for recycling and promoting sustainable practices, GIVO encourages community ownership and responsibility for environmental protection.
The Onne community has enthusiastically embraced this initiative, recognizing its transformative potential. The Paramount Ruler of Onne lauded the project as the first of its kind in the history of Eleme LGA, Rivers State, and a much-needed solution to the community’s drainage challenges. This endorsement from the community leadership highlights the significance of the project and underscores its potential to serve as a model for other communities facing similar environmental challenges. The solar-powered recycling plant represents a significant step towards creating a more sustainable future for Onne and serves as a testament to the power of collaborative partnerships in driving positive change. The plant is poised to have a lasting impact on the community’s environment, economy, and overall well-being, showcasing the potential for sustainable solutions to address pressing environmental problems.
