Varsity To Commence Production Of Plastic Spoons

The project coordinator at Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike Ikwo, Ebonyi State, Prof Robert Onyeneke, has said that the University’s Plastic Waste Management Project will commence recycling and the production of plastic before the end of the year.

Onyeneke disclosed this during a technical and entrepreneurship programme organised by the University Plastic Management Waste Project team, sponsored by the French Embassy of Nigeria.

Prof. Onyeneke, who is also the dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, said that within the university community, casual workers had been employed to separate plastic waste immediately after use, adding that the project team had also made provision at designated areas where the plastic waste would be disposed of in plastic bins.

He noted that among the plastics to be segregated are plastic bottles and containers, food packaging plastics, and disposable plastic utensils, and that the team has also ensured efficient collection logistics, ensuring that segregated plastic waste is gathered regularly and transported safely to the sorting area.

“We have concluded plans to commence the recycling and production of plastic spoons on the campus before the end of the year. The university management, alongside the French Embassy in Nigeria, has also made funds available to actualise the project,” he said.

The university maintains that in addition to generating revenue for the institution, the project will also enhance environmental cleanliness.

He commended the university management and the French Embassy of Nigeria for the support and commitment to the project, adding that out of the Five Institutions in the country selected for the projects, the university will ensure it makes judicious use of the opportunity.

The lead researcher of the project and Head of Department, Biotechnology, Dr Nwagu Kingsley, said that the event is a sustainability program organised for students, staff, members of the host community and other persons involved in plastic management.

He stated that all the equipment for the smooth takeoff of the project has been assembled, adding that there are currently enough waste products for the recycling and production of the spoons.

Nwagu expressed concern about the lack of proper cleaning of plastics among Nigerians before reuse, adding that adequate cleaning is expected to remove contaminants that can pose health risks.

He warned against using only water to clean used plastics before reuse, stressing that most Nigerians face health risks from the unhygienic reuse of plastics.