KEY POINTS
- FBRA and StreetWaste recovered over 2.2 tonnes of recyclable materials at the Achakpo Market area in Ajegunle, Lagos, drawing over 500 participants from more than 250 households
- Residents exchanged PET bottles, glass, aluminum cans, juice packs and cartons for products from FBRA member companies, reinforcing a circular economy model
- The Ajegunle exercise follows FBRA’s inauguration of two recyclables collection centers in partnership with the UN Industrial Development Organization
The Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance recovered over 2.2 tonnes of recyclable materials at a community recycling buyback event in Ajegunle, Lagos, to mark Global Recycling Day. Meanwhile, the drive, which StreetWaste co-organized at the Achakpo Market area, attracted over 500 participants from more than 250 households.
“FBRA exists at the intersection of industry responsibility and community wellbeing,” Executive Director Agharese Onaghise said. “What we demonstrated in Ajegunle is that recycling is not a privilege reserved for affluent neighborhoods; it is a right, a resource, and opportunity for every community.”
Residents exchange recyclables for products from member companies
Additionally, residents turned in PET bottles, glass, aluminum cans, juice packs and cartons, exchanging them for products from FBRA member companies in a circular economy model. The event also drew support from the Ministry of Environment, Lagos Waste Management Authority, council environmental officials and the Lagos State climate office.
An awareness walk opened proceedings, with the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority ensuring traffic safety throughout the drive. Government participation underscored growing public-private collaboration in advancing sustainable waste management.
Member companies back circular economy investment in Ajegunle
Furthermore, John Isiekwene, speaking on behalf of FBRA member companies, said the alliance actively builds the community recycling buyback model rather than watching from the sidelines. “FBRA and its member companies are not standing on the sidelines of the circular economy conversation.
We are investing in it, building it, and showing up for the communities that make it possible. Today is proof that industry can be a partner in environmental transformation, and we are only just beginning,” he said. Moreover, FBRA noted that the Ajegunle exercise follows the inauguration of two recyclables collection centers in partnership with the UN Industrial Development Organization.
