Lagos Laments Environmental Impact Of Construction, Disaster Waste Challenges

Lagos State government has decried the growing challenge of construction, demolition and disaster waste in the state and urged construction firms, property managers and other key players in the built environment to support its efforts in addressing the problem.

At a one-day stakeholders’ forum on construction, demolition and disaster waste management, the commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, stressed the need for collaborative action to curb the environmental impact of increasing construction activities in Lagos.

The forum, themed “Building Responsibly and Driving Efficiency: Strengthening Stakeholder Collaboration in Construction, Demolition and Disaster Waste Management in Lagos State”, brought together industry leaders, environmental experts, and government officials to deliberate on sustainable waste management solutions.

Wahab emphasized that as Lagos continues to urbanize rapidly, the adoption of responsible building practices and circular economy principles is crucial.

He urged stakeholders to prioritize waste reduction from the planning phase of construction projects, promote recycling and reuse, and ensure proper disposal of residual waste.

“Waste is inevitable with growing urban populations and human activities, but how we manage this waste determines whether we build a sustainable future or become overwhelmed by it,” Wahab said.

He warned that the state would not hesitate to sanction defaulters who violate environmental regulations, including the sealing of project sites and imposition of fines.

The commissioner noted that the government would prefer voluntary compliance to foster collective responsibility for public health and environmental safety.

Wahab also reiterated the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to the THEMES Plus development agenda, particularly its “Health and Environment” pillar, which focuses on promoting a cleaner and more livable Lagos through improved sanitation and sustainable waste strategies.

Key regulatory measures discussed at the forum include the mandatory registration of all project sites with the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), the submission of a waste management plan prior to project commencement, and the segregation, recycling, and proper disposal of construction and demolition waste.

In his remarks, guest speaker Dr. Tijani Ajibola advocated for stronger enforcement of policies and increased awareness among stakeholders.

He urged construction companies to embrace recycling, noting that many materials typically discarded such as cement bags, iron rods, wood, and broken blocks could be repurposed to create jobs and reduce poverty, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal

Earlier, LAWMA managing director, chief executive officer, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, represented by executive director Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, mentioned that over 50 per cent of waste generated in Lagos originates from construction sites.