Experts seek shift to circular economy to tackle climate change
Stakeholders in environmental engineering have called for a shift from Nigeria’s traditional linear economy to a circular economy to tackle climate change, create jobs and promote sustainable development. They spoke at the 9th memorial public lecture of late Engineer Samuel Fadahunsi, organised by the Nigerian Institution of Environmental Engineers (NIEE) in Benin City, with the […]
Experts are advocating for a transition from Nigeria's conventional linear economy to a circular economy model in order to address climate change, generate employment opportunities, and foster sustainable development. This proposal was discussed at the 9th memorial public lecture of the late Engineer Samuel Fadahunsi, organized by the Nigerian Institution of Environmental Engineers (NIEE) in Benin City.
The event centered on the theme, "Engineering Climate Resilience and Circular Economy Solutions for Sustainable Development in Nigeria."
Professor Jacob Ehiorobo, one of the speakers, called for substantial investments in waste recycling facilities. He highlighted that Nigeria generates over 32 million tonnes of solid waste annually, with food waste and plastics contributing significantly to this waste stream. According to Ehiorobo, the waste recycling market could reach N100 billion by 2030 and generate more than 250,000 jobs.
He emphasized that a circular economy encourages the reuse and recycling of materials, as opposed to the traditional "take-make-dispose" model. This approach has the potential to create new industries and jobs, stimulate innovation, minimize resource depletion and waste generation, and enhance local production through the implementation of sustainable technologies.
However, Ehiorobo stressed the importance of robust policies, institutional support, and collaboration among government agencies, private sector operators, and international organizations to scale up recycling and climate action.
The keynote speaker, Professor Emmanuel Oluwadare Akpaja, underscored the economic potential of mushroom production. He noted that this practice provides health benefits and income generation opportunities. The NIEE National Chairman, Engr Caius Ikem Umekesiobi, characterized Fadahunsi as a visionary who believed that engineering should serve humanity and protect the environment.
Engr Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, represented by Engr Chukudi Akpotowho, commended the NIEE for continuing to organize the annual memorial lecture. The late engineer's family expressed gratitude to the institution for preserving his memory.
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