₦airaland Forum

Tackling Plastic Pollution and Promoting Environmental Sustainability

As part of its commitment to environmental sustainability, community development, and the promotion of Human Duties, JCI EdoBronze, in collaboration with KYRUS Recycling Agency and the Center for Community and Oceanic Law, successfully carried out a large scale River Cleanup and Environmental Sensitization Project along the Ikpoba River axis in Benin City on Saturday, 30th May 2026.

The impactful initiative, which took place immediately after the monthly environmental sanitation exercise, also received support and collaboration from the Edo State Ministry of Environment, Vine Stability Initiative, and YALI Network Edo.

The cleanup exercise covered the river environment from 3rd Junction to Ramat Park, where volunteers, environmental advocates, youth leaders, and community stakeholders worked collectively to remove plastic waste and other pollutants threatening the river ecosystem and surrounding environment.

Speaking on the significance of the project, organizers emphasized that the initiative was designed not only to clean the environment but also to address the growing concern of plastic pollution and its damaging effects on water bodies, aquatic life, public health, and the general ecosystem.

During the exercise, extensive sensitization and awareness campaigns were carried out among residents, traders, and individuals living around the river environment. Participants educated members of the community on the dangers of indiscriminate waste disposal, especially the dumping of plastics into drainage systems and water bodies, while also encouraging proper waste management and environmental responsibility.

The project was implemented under the framework of JCI Human Duties principles, which promote collective responsibility, environmental stewardship, service to humanity, sustainable development, and the protection of public health and natural resources for future generations.

Speaking on the significance of the project, 2026 President JCI EdoBronze, Akin-Ola Emmanuel Eloghosa, emphasized the need for continuous environmental education, stronger community participation, and sustained efforts towards reducing plastic pollution within communities. He further encouraged residents to embrace proper waste disposal practices and become advocates for environmental sustainability within their respective neighborhoods.

The initiative also aligns strongly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land), all of which emphasize environmental sustainability, ecosystem protection, and responsible community action.

Stakeholders and community members commended the organizers and volunteers for the success of the exercise, describing the initiative as timely, impactful, and necessary in addressing environmental challenges affecting riverine communities.

The successful execution of the project further highlights the importance of partnerships, community participation, and youth-led action in promoting sustainable environmental practices and creating positive impact within society.

JCI EdoBronze reaffirmed its commitment to implementing impactful projects that address societal challenges while inspiring citizens, especially young people, to take active responsibility towards protecting the environment and building a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for all