The Ogun State Government has launched two new initiatives aimed at tackling plastic pollution and promoting a circular economy, while also creating business opportunities for residents.

One of the initiatives, dubbed ‘Plastic for Cash’, will allow residents to exchange sorted plastic waste for money and other valuable items.

The state’s Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, announced the programmes on Monday during an event marking the 2025 World Environment Day, held at the palace of the Olowu of Owu in Abeokuta, the state capital.

This year’s theme, ’Beating Plastic Pollution’, highlights global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste.

According to Oresanya, Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration is responding to the global call for action with local solutions aimed at harnessing the economic potential of plastic waste management.

He explained that ‘Plastic for Cash’ is designed to reduce pollution while empowering young people, women, and low-income earners by turning waste into economic value.

“This initiative is more than a policy—it’s a movement to incentivize behavioural change,” Oresanya said. “By turning waste into wealth, we not only tackle pollution but also create economic opportunities for vulnerable groups.”

The second initiative, ‘The Blue Box Programme’, is spearheaded by the Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA). It introduces a structured, house-to-house waste segregation system that enables residents to separate recyclables from organic and general waste at the source.

Oresanya emphasized that both initiatives aim to foster sustainable waste management habits and promote environmental responsibility across the state.