In Ogun State, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are taking centre stage in Nigeria's fight against plastic pollution—transforming waste into jobs, value, and a thriving circular economy.
Nigeria produces over 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with only a fraction recycled, according to the UN. One local SME has developed the capacity to convert discarded bottles into high-quality, food-grade recycled PET (rPET) pellets that meet NAFDAC, EFSA, and FDA standards—an achievement unmatched in the country.
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The plant processes 20,000 tonnes of bottles annually, employing hundreds of waste pickers and SME aggregators while creating opportunities for the informal waste economy. This approach not only provides livelihoods but also strengthens local recycling infrastructure.
State initiatives like Plastic for Cash and Blue Box programmes in Ogun are further supporting SMEs to scale their operations, incentivising recycling, and fostering sustainable environmental practices.
With policy support, strategic partnerships, and growing public awareness, Nigerian SMEs are proving that waste can be turned into wealth—driving environmental change while creating jobs and positioning the country as a leader in the regional circular economy.
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