Oando Clean Energy Limited (OCEL), a subsidiary of Oando Plc, has intensified efforts to tackle plastic pollution by spearheading a high-level policy dialogue on biodegradable alternatives to single-use plastics in Nigeria.
In partnership with the Federal Ministry of Environment, the company convened a one-day stakeholder workshop in Abuja, bringing together regulators, policymakers, industry leaders, and academic experts to chart a pathway for adopting sustainable plastic solutions.
According to a statement from the company, participants included representatives from the Federal Ministry of Environment, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), as well as state commissioners for environment and key players across the manufacturing value chain.
The forum focused on addressing the escalating problem of plastic waste leakage while exploring scalable, science-based interventions that align with Nigeria’s environmental and economic priorities.
Delivering the keynote address, the Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Lawal, underscored the severe environmental and agricultural consequences of plastic pollution. He noted that plastic waste continues to clog waterways, degrade soil quality, and endanger livestock, which often ingest harmful materials. He also warned of broader ecological threats, including biodiversity loss and the growing presence of microplastics in the food chain, with implications for human health.
A major highlight of the workshop was a technical presentation by Polymateria’s Chief Strategy Officer, Andrew Webster, who showcased the company’s Biotransformation technology. He explained that Nigeria’s climatic conditions—characterised by high temperatures, humidity, and sunlight—make it particularly suitable for the rapid biodegradation process enabled by the innovation.
The technology, applied as a small additive during plastic production, remains stable during usage but activates when exposed to environmental elements such as heat, air, and ultraviolet light. Once triggered, it breaks down plastic into a biodegradable substance that is consumed by microorganisms, leaving only carbon dioxide, water, and biomass.
Importantly, the solution is designed to remain compatible with existing recycling systems, ensuring that current waste management processes are not disrupted.
The workshop featured technical sessions, policy discussions, and breakout groups that examined regulatory standards, enforcement mechanisms, and practical implementation strategies. Stakeholders emphasised the importance of coordinated action across government, industry, and research institutions to ensure effective adoption.
In her closing remarks, the Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Dr. Bahijjahtu Abubakar, called for sustained collaboration to drive implementation of agreed frameworks nationwide. She also urged academic institutions to play a stronger role in advancing research and supporting the localisation of biodegradable technologies.
Speaking during the closing session, OCEL’s Vice President for Opportunity Maturation and New Ventures, Hadiza Adukonu, commended stakeholders for their engagement and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to fostering dialogue around standards, policy reform, and enforcement.
The workshop ended with a renewed call for strategic partnerships to accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions that can curb plastic pollution while promoting sustainable economic growth.
Oando Clean Energy Limited reiterated its commitment to driving cross-sector collaboration and advancing practical environmental solutions as Nigeria moves towards a more sustainable future.