LAWMA Threatens Clampdown On Illegal Recycling Firms

Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has threatened to clampdown on property owners, agents and private occupiers in the state, urging them to henceforth desist from illegal recycling and scavenging in unlicensed facilities.

The agency also advised them to halt indiscriminate sorting, dumping, storing and trading of recyclable waste in their facilities and in public spaces around them.

Commenting on a public notice issued by LAWMA to property owners, agents and private occupiers, the managing director and chief executive officer of the agency, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin noted that such activities not only degraded the city’s aesthetic appeal but also disrupted the rights of property owners, contributing to serious environmental hazards.

The final public notice read, “LAWMA has observed a rising trend of indiscriminate waste sorting, dumping, and trading of recyclables in unauthorised locations. These activities violate the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017 and will not be tolerated. Any individual or entity engaging in illegal recycling or scavenging will face strict enforcement measures and penalties as prescribed by law.”

It further cited part III, Section 85 & 86 of the Law, which makes the deposition of recyclable waste in undesignated locations strictly prohibited, adding that LAWMA would take all necessary steps to enforce compliance, including prosecuting violators and shutting down offending facilities.

Commenting further, Gbadegesin said, “We cannot fold our hands and watch few people derail the ongoing efforts to make the environment cleaner and livable for all residents. I also want to add that property owners who permit unauthorised recycling or scavenging activities on their premises risk revocation of property rights and other legal consequences.”

The LAWMA boss urged residents and stakeholders to utilise only licensed recycling facilities and registered waste collectors, to ensure proper waste management in Lagos, encouraging the populace to report illegal activities through LAWMA’s official channels.

“We remain committed to achieving a cleaner and more sustainable Lagos, but we need the cooperation of all residents. We urge everyone to comply with waste management laws of the state and contribute to a healthier environment,” he stressed.