The Empower Communities for Plastic Sustainability (ECPS) Initiative, a project of YASIF Nigeria, a non-governmental organisation, has empowered over 1,200 beneficiaries across communities in Kano, Cross River, and Niger States.
Launched with support from the Global Plastic Action Partnership, the project aims to foster a movement for plastic sustainability through grassroots innovation.
Lauretta Jimba, Head of Programme at YASIF Nigeria, highlighted the importance of community-level action in tackling climate change.
“We believe real climate action begins at the community level. By equipping people with the tools and knowledge to act sustainably, we are not only protecting the environment but also driving economic growth and promoting social inclusion,” she said.
Jimba added, “The ECPS project has equipped over 1,200 women, youths, and persons with disabilities with digital, business, and hands-on recycling skills. Participants have learned to creatively repurpose plastic and non-biodegradable waste into useful items such as side stools, shoes, storage boxes, and centre tables.”
She further emphasised that part of the initiative’s mission is to create a greener and cleaner environment.
As the project moves to its next phase, participants have developed their own community-led sustainability projects, which will be showcased in a pitching contest aimed at promoting innovation and sustainability at the grassroots level.
Bahijjahtu Abubakar, Director of the Pollution Control and Environmental Health Department at the Ministry of Environment, stressed the need for a united effort among government, companies, and individuals to tackle plastic pollution.
“Plastic pollution has generated global concerns due to its adverse impacts on biodiversity and marine life,” she said.
One beneficiary, Mustapha Abdusallam, expressed his gratitude for the empowerment provided by the project.
“We make plastic interlocks from starched nylons. Initially, we used a drum to melt the starch, but after a fire broke out, YASIF Nigeria provided us with an automated machine for production. I hope the government recognises YASIF’s efforts and supports the creation of more programmes like this,” he said.
The ECPS project has demonstrated the potential of grassroots innovation to drive sustainability and economic growth. By empowering communities to manage plastic waste, YASIF Nigeria is promoting a cleaner and greener environment for future generations.
