World Environment Day 2025 calls for collective action to tackle plastic pollution. And with the theme: “Beat Plastic Pollution,” the campaign isn’t just about raising awareness, but a call for action. The campaign however, compels individuals, organizations, industries, and governments to adopt sustainable practices that will drive systemic change.

Under this premise, Nestlé Nigeria, the global food and beverage producing company has stepped up efforts in its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and social inclusion.

The firm recently launched a comprehensive ‘Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE)’ training program, empowering 100 plastic waste workers across Lagos and Abuja. The initiative aims to enhance the safety and wellbeing of these invaluable workers while empowering them and promoting their dignity within the plastics recycling value chain.

It’s often said that waste workers (plastic collectors) are among the least recognized in the societal job space, yet play a crucial role in the ecosystem to combat plastic pollution in our environment. And Nestlé Nigeria,  keying into the affirmative action, tends to promote the dignity of garbage collecting as a veritable means for environmental  sustainability.

The training programme, being supported by prominent stakeholders that include National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), the Recyclers Association of Nigeria (RAN), and the Food Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA), encompassed essential topics, such as best practices in occupational health and safety, responsible handling of recyclable materials, fire prevention and rescue techniques, and the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). 

Beyond the training, Nestlé Nigeria promised that each participant will also receive PPE kits to ensure safer working conditions, fostering a healthier environment for both workers and their communities.

Speaking at the launch, the Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead for Nestlé Nigeria, Victoria Uwadoka articulated the company’s motivation for the initiative, highlighting Nestlé’s commitment to building a waste-free future and the recognition of the role that the waste workers play in bringing this vision to life.

She said: “At Nestlé, we are committed to building a waste-free future and recognize the crucial role plastic waste workers play in reducing pollution and facilitating a circular economy. This training is a vital component of our support for this key stakeholder group, enhancing Nigeria’s waste management infrastructure. 

“By equipping these essential workers with the necessary skills and knowledge, we help to improve their quality of life while increasing their employability and boost productivity within a sustainable waste management framework,” Uwadoka added.

During the opening ceremony in Abuja, Prof. Innocent Barikor, Director General of NESREA, praised Nestlé’s commitment to environmental sustainability, stating; “I commend Nestlé Nigeria Plc. for its commitment towards environmental sustainability and for prioritizing the health and safety of those at the frontline of waste management. 

“Waste workers are often unrecognized yet play a crucial role in our national effort to combat plastic pollution in our environment. The focus on training waste workers is commendable, especially at a time when the world is seeking solutions to the prevailing challenges relating to plastic waste management,” said Barikor.

Responding on behalf of the trainees at the Lagos event, Engr. Mayowa Elefin, Managin Director, Maladase Ecopreneur Management Company Limited said: “This training is an impactful initiative which aligns with our commitment to promoting a safe, healthy, and sustainable work environment across our plastic recycling value chain. It has provided valuable knowledge and practical skills that will greatly benefit our staff, enhancing their capacity to maintain safe operations, ensure healthier workplaces, and ultimately improve productivity.”

Meanwhile, the training initiative underscores the collective commitment of Nestlé Nigeria, NESREA, RAN, and FBRA to promote environmental sustainability and generate positive social impact. By ensuring that plastic waste workers acquire the skills necessary for healthier, more productive lives, the organizers contribute to a more sustainable circular economy.

Other Stakeholders at the Abuja and Lagos event were – Director, Inspection and Enforcement, NESREA, Dr. N.C Beka, Asst. Director, Plastic Waste Control, Inspection and Enforcement, NESREA, Engr. Chukwudi Nwabuisiaku, Director Environmental Health and Safety, Abuja Environmental Protection Board, Mrs. Kate Ogbona, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI), Mr. Nura Abba Rimi, Director, Industrial Development Department, FMITI, Mrs. Muyiwa Ajayi, Controller, Federal Ministry of Environment, Lagos Zonal Office, Mrs. Olabimpe Adenaike, Director, NESREA Lagos Liaison Office, Dr. Jonathan Sylvanus Dajal, Special Adviser to Lagos State Government on Circular Economy and Climate Change, Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi. President, North-Central Coordinator, RAN, Mr. Femi Owoeye, Southwest Coordinator, RAN, Mrs. Feyikemi Egbeyemi, President, Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria (WAPAN), Comrade Salisu Ali Yarima, Lagos State Coordinator, WAPAN, Mr. Adebisi Franklyn.

The ‘SHE’ training program which was implemented by ImpactCrest Consulting aligns seamlessly with Nestlé’s dedication to enhancing quality of life and fostering a healthier future for individuals and families, as well as the planet. Together, we are taking significant steps towards a more sustainable and inclusive future.