Friesland Campina Launches Zero Waste Initiative For Sustainability

FrieslandCampina WAMCO has launched its Zero Waste Initiative aimed at promoting sustainable environmental practices in Nigeria.

The two-phase initiative begins with efforts to reduce post-production waste sent to landfills, followed by a focus on recovering post-consumer waste.

This approach will set a benchmark in the country’s dairy sector through a circular waste management model designed to enhance resource efficiency and minimise environmental impact.

The initiative was officially launched by deputy governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat,  during the 2024 Global Sustainability Week.

The event highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving zero waste goals and aligns with Lagos State’s circular economy and sustainability objectives.

In his remarks, Hamzat, represented by commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mosopefolu George commended FrieslandCampina for its proactive approach to sustainability.

He stated, “Today’s launch reflects our collective commitment to create a cleaner, and healthier Lagos. By reducing waste and promoting recycling, FrieslandCampina is not only supporting Lagos State’s waste management goals but also setting a commendable example in Nigeria’s food and beverage industry.”

Managing director of FrieslandCampina WAMCO, Roger Adou emphasised the company’s commitment to balancing environmental responsibility with delivering high-quality dairy nutrition.

“The Zero Waste Initiative is a testament to our company’s dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices,” he said, highlighting the firm’s goal of achieving climate neutrality and circular operations by 2050, with zero waste to landfill by 2030.

In addition to the Zero Waste Initiative, the company continues to focus on responsible packaging, resource conservation, and sustainable production processes, reinforcing its “Doing Dairy Right” ethos.

Deputy director of Circular Economy at the Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA), Jirinsola Olaleye also expressed support for the initiative, highlighting key programs such as Adopt a Street, Adopt a Bin, and the formalisation of waste collectors.

Olaleye commended FrieslandCampina for its partnership with LAWMA and its donation of uniforms to support street sweepers, furthering the goal of a cleaner Lagos.

FrieslandCampina’s executive director, Oreoluwa Famurewa, emphasised the importance of addressing environmental challenges and the role the initiative plays in achieving a sustainable future. “We are grateful for the partnership with the Lagos State government, whose support is pivotal in helping us achieve a circular economy in Nigeria,” she said.

This initiative reflects FrieslandCampina WAMCO’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, benefiting both the company and the communities it serves.