Making a difference: volunteering to combat plastic pollution in your community: a case study from Africa.

Author: Adeniyi Toyin Funmilayo, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.

In today's world, the impact of plastic pollution on the environment is becoming increasingly evident.

Plastic waste has infiltrated every corner of our planet, posing a serious threat to ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. As awareness of this issue grows, so does the need for collective action. One remarkable example of volunteer-driven organisation causing change is the African Clean Up Initiative “(ACI).” Founded by Dr. Alex Akhigbe , this organisation has led the way in helping to address plastic pollution in Africa. Its community-driven initiatives, clean-up campaigns, and educational programs have transformed local attitudes towards plastic waste.

At the heart of ACI's success is its community-centric approach. Recognising that change begins at the local level, the initiative has many chapters across eight states in Nigeria. ACI organises regular cleanup events with teams of volunteers, partnering with other environmental organisations, schools, and government agencies to ensure the active participation of stakeholders. The cleanup events not only remove plastic waste but also serve as educational platforms, enlightening participants about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution.

The fight against plastic pollution requires a collaborative effort from individuals, communities, and organisations. It is essential to collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, local communities, and businesses, to maximise the impact of volunteer efforts and achieve lasting change in the fight against plastic pollution. 

Volunteerism emerges as a powerful force that can drive positive change and combat the plastic epidemic. By actively engaging in cleanup initiatives, spreading awareness, and advocating for sustainable practices, we can create a cleaner, healthier environment for current and future generations.

Volunteerism: A Catalyst for Change

Volunteerism acts as a catalyst for change, providing individuals with an opportunity to directly contribute to a cleaner and healthier planet. Through volunteer efforts, communities can unite to combat plastic pollution and inspire others to do the same. Volunteerism plays a crucial role in mitigating plastic pollution in Nigeria which, like many other countries, faces significant challenges in managing plastic waste and its detrimental effects on the environment, public health, and marine ecosystems. Here are some ways in which ACI through volunteerism is addressing the issue of plastic pollution:

• Cleanup Campaigns: Volunteers organise and participate in cleanup campaigns and collect plastic waste from public areas, beaches, rivers, and other natural habitats. By removing plastic pollution from these areas, volunteers contribute to the prevention of further contamination and protect the local ecosystem.
• Awareness and Education: Volunteers engage in awareness and education initiatives to educate communities about the negative impacts of plastic pollution and the importance of proper waste management. They conduct workshops, seminars, and outreach programs in schools, colleges, and communities to promote behavioural change and encourage recycling and responsible plastic use. ACI’s various programs include (i) Recycles Pay Education  project where education about the menace of plastic pollution is coupled with collection of plastic that are then exchanged for money to subsidise school fees, and (ii) Green Footprints,  an education program for public schools to teach children about environmental education and promote awareness and the SDGs.
• Recycling Initiatives: ACI with its team of volunteers’ support and initiate recycling programs, including plastic collection drives and awareness campaigns. It collaborates with local authorities, waste management companies, and recycling centers to promote the recycling of plastic waste. Volunteers also organise community-based recycling centers/banks establishing partnerships with existing facilities of recyclers to ensure proper disposal and recycling of plastics. Over 8321.4kg tonnes of plastics have been collected so far.
• Policy Advocacy: Volunteers advocate for stronger policies and regulations to address plastic pollution. They work with environmental organisations/NGOs, and government agencies to push for the implementation of effective waste management systems, plastic bag bans, extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs, and other measures to reduce plastic pollution. Recently one of the chapters of ACI worked with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to review a policy document on Plastic Waste Control.
• Alternative Solutions: Volunteers contribute to the development and promotion of alternative solutions to single-use plastics. This can involve supporting initiatives such as promoting reusable bags, encouraging the use of biodegradable or compostable alternatives, and advocating for the reduction of plastic packaging in various industries.
• Research and Innovation: Volunteers with expertise in research and innovation contribute to finding sustainable solutions to plastic pollution. They participate in scientific studies, data collection, and analysis to better understand the extent of the problem and identify innovative approaches to tackle plastic pollution effectively.
• Raising Awareness: Volunteer-led efforts serve as powerful vehicles for raising awareness about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution. By organising events, workshops, awareness walks, educational campaigns, radio and TV programs volunteers can engage with the public and inspire lasting behavioural changes.

Getting Involved

Getting involved is easier than you might think. By volunteering your time, skills, or resources, you can actively participate in cleanup activities, awareness campaigns, and recycling initiatives. Every contribution counts! To organise a community clean up you can join an environmental NGO, form a team of volunteers by gathering your friends, neighbours or relations. First, identify an area with high plastic waste accumulation; sensitise the community on the dangers of plastic pollution and the importance of waste segregation. Get them to join in the cleanup and collection of recyclables and collaborate with a recycler to pick up the plastic waste for recycling.

• How can I contribute to combating plastic pollution as a volunteer?

You can contribute by participating in cleanup drives, spreading awareness, educating others, and promoting sustainable alternatives.

• What is the role of the African Clean Up Initiative?

The African Clean Up Initiative leads the way in addressing plastic pollution through community-driven initiatives, clean-up campaigns, and educational programs.

• Can I organise a cleanup drive in my own community?

Absolutely! Organising a cleanup drive involves identifying problem areas, gathering volunteers, and ensuring proper waste disposal.

• How can education make a difference in plastic pollution?

Education empowers individuals to make informed choices, reduce plastic consumption, and advocate for change.

• What is the ultimate goal of volunteerism in combating plastic pollution?

The goal is to create a plastic-free future where communities are clean, healthy, and free from the burden of plastic pollution.

By actively engaging in volunteerism, we have the power to combat plastic pollution, engage our communities, and build a better future for all. Join the movement and be a part of the solution!