The Sterling One Foundation has identified plastic waste pollution as a critical issue to address this World Environment Day , leveraging community-led cleanups, strategic partnerships, and ongoing policy engagement to drive impactful change.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Foundation announced its participation in WEDex 2025 , a World Environment Day convening hosted by GreenHub Africa in partnership with the United Nations , aimed at finding solutions to the global plastic pollution crisis.
Earlier this year, the Foundation spearheaded a major cleanup effort at Elegushi Beach under its Beach Adoption Programme , a national initiative that has formally adopted over five beaches since 2021, including Alpha, Eleko, Lafiaji, Iwerekun, and Okun Ajah . Across these sites, the Foundation has cleared more than 9,000 kilograms of waste , including over 4,800 kilograms of recyclables , while collaborating with local leaders to foster awareness and long-term stewardship in coastal communities.
Related News
- Plastic pollution harming tourism industry – APWEN
- NDDC commits to tackling environmental challenges with tree planting
- Group urges end to plastic pollution
The Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation, Olapeju Ibekwe , emphasized the strategic importance of their beach cleanup efforts.
“Our work on the beaches is not symbolic. It is a deliberate strategy to improve coastal resilience, protect vulnerable populations, and link sustainability with real opportunity. Every cleanup is a chance to restore dignity to the environment and build trust in the systems meant to protect it,” Ibekwe stated.
At WEDex 2025 , the Foundation will participate in the session titled ‘Financing Youth Initiatives for Green Entrepreneurship’ at the UN House in Abuja , focusing on unlocking capital for community-based solutions to plastic waste management.
The United Nations , a key partner in WEDex, will also co-convene the Africa Social Impact Summit , scheduled for July 10 and 11 in Lagos. The summit will explore practical solutions for climate resilience and policy innovation under the theme ‘Scaling Action: Bold Solutions for Climate Resilience and Policy Innovation’ .
“Plastic pollution is a development issue but also an untapped opportunity,” Ibekwe remarked. “If we do not treat it as urgent and systemic, it will keep undermining livelihoods, health, and climate goals. Yet, if we engage in the right partnerships and investments, plastic waste can be turned into a driver of jobs and innovation, especially for young people across the continent. The call now is for both the public and private sectors to act, to see beyond the problem and unlock its potential for good.”
Follow us on Instagram.
https://www.instagram.com/businessnewsng?igsh=ZXpweTdjOGF1ZXdu
