September 9 2024 – In Lagos, there’s a lot of waste. But what if we could turn this waste into something valuable?
That’s the idea behind the “Leave No One Behind” initiative, supported by WEMA Bank and the Lagos State Government.
Recent studies indicate that Lagos produces over 10,000 metric tons of waste each day, much of which ends up in landfills without proper processing. This not only strains the city’s infrastructure but also poses significant health and environmental risks.
Recognising the potential of turning this challenge into an opportunity, Wema Bank, in partnership with the Lagos State Government, supported the “Leave No One Behind” initiative. This groundbreaking programme aims to equip over 20,000 women and girls with the skills needed to participate in the circular economy, transforming waste materials into valuable products and fostering economic independence.
How it works
This initiative teaches women and girls how to make useful things from waste. They learn to make things like chairs, mirrors, and jewelry. This helps them earn money and become independent.
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Key milestones of the initiative
The initiative had been able to achieve the development of circular economy competencies among women at the Special Correctional Centre for Girls in Idi-Araba, where they have been trained to produce ottoman seats, mirrors, and jewelry from waste materials.
Additionally, the establishment of a collection centre benefits up to 1,000 community members, with a weekly collection of 200 kg of recyclables, generating revenue for the center.
The initiative also includes the development of a biogas digester that produces 100 kg of methane gas, providing sustainable cooking fuel for the kitchen at the Special Correctional Centre.
And an improved supply of organic fertilizer to the facility’s farm, enhancing the quality of produce and reducing market purchasing costs.
These achievements showcase the transformation of the center into a circular economy model, emphasising resource efficiency, cost savings, revenue generation, and carbon emission reduction.
The infrastructure supports 1,000 individuals, creates 50 employment opportunities, collects 200 kg of recyclable waste daily, and produces 100 kg of biogas, effectively replacing LPG and reducing costs.
This initiative is more than an empowerment scheme; it is a comprehensive effort to ensure that marginalized individuals are occupied with legitimate work after their release. By turning waste into valuable resources, the initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 12 on responsible consumption and production.
Through this initiative, WEMA Bank is actively supporting and upholding SDG 12 by promoting a circular economy that encourages the use, reuse, and recycling of resources.
