In a bid to promote sustainable environmental practices and tackle the growing problem of plastic pollution, Hope Aglow Charity Foundation has urged students of Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State, and Kenule Beeson Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic (KENPOLY), Bori, Rivers State, to adopt the waste-to-wealth initiative.
The foundation, led by Dr. Cynthia Amaka Obiorah, Associate Professor of Occupational Health, Safety, and Environment, made the call during the commemoration of World Environment Day 2025 at both institutions on 11th and 5th of June, respectively.
Speaking in line with the theme of this year’s celebration is “Ending Plastic Pollution,” Dr. Obiorah emphasized the importance of individual actions in achieving this goal.
According to Dr. Obiorah, the waste-to-wealth initiative offers a unique opportunity for students to contribute to environmental sustainability while creating economic value.
She encouraged students to adopt the 5 Rs of waste management: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, and Recycle, and introduced a new dimension – the 6th R, “Regenerate wealth” through plastic regeneration
“The waste-to-wealth initiative offers a unique opportunity for students to contribute to environmental sustainability while creating economic value,” she stated.
Dr. Obiorah sounded the alarm on the dangers of plastic pollution, highlighting its devastating impact on human health and the environment.
“The chemicals in plastic are harmful to humans and the environment,” Dr. Obiorah warned, citing the destruction of marine life and ecosystems. “Microplastics, found in everything, pose significant threats to environmental and human health.”
In his remarks during the seminar at the Bingham University Nasarawa State, Dean, Faculty of Communications and Media Studies, Dr. Desmond Okocha, who is also the State Coordinator of UNA-Nigeria, Abuja branch, emphasised the importance of prioritising environmental health for survival while urging participants drawn from different departments to take proactive steps to protect the environment.
“There is a need for us to value the environment and protect it. This year’s theme is ending plastic solutions. It is necessary for us to preserve the environment by taking care of how we use and dispose of plastics.”
Also, a lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication at the Bingham University, Dr James Bwala, in a paper presentation said tree planting was a fundamental strategy for safeguarding the environment due to its multifaceted benefits in climate regulation, biodiversity support, and community well-being.
“By emphasising education and awareness, communities can better understand the role of trees in environmental health, fostering a culture of stewardship that supports long-term ecological balance.”
Meanwhile, at the Kenule Beeson Saro Wiwa Polytechnic, where the awareness on Ending Plastic Pollution was also taken to the Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Michael Saro, who pledged the institution’s commitment to support the waste-to-wealth initiative, emphasized the need for collective action to address plastic pollution.
“The management of the polytechnic accepts this initiative and promises to key into your vision… We’re open to more collaborations.”
President of Junior Chamber International, KENPOLY, Green Doosia, emphasized collective responsibility for environmental conservation, saying, “We all own the environment; if we abuse it, it’s to our detriment.”
