LASEPA HOSTS LAGOS INDUSTRIAL POLLUTION ABATEMENT AWARD 2024
... Urges Industries to Join Government in Pollution Control
The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) recently held the Lagos Industrial Pollution Abatement Award 2024 at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, Secretariat, Alausa Ikeja.
The prestigious event recognised industries in Lagos that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to environmental practices, particularly in managing industrial waste and emissions, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable Lagos.
In his keynote address, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Ministry, Dr. Gaji Omobolaji Tajudeen, reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to sustainability.
Wahab emphasised the importance of fostering collaboration between businesses and regulators to protect the environment. He said, “Our goal is to encourage more people and businesses to adopt sustainable practices. Without this commitment, the environment will suffer, leading to increased health risks and challenges for future generations”.
He further stressed the State’s approach of ensuring that industries regulate themselves and adhere to established environmental standards, rather than immediately resorting to penalties. “Through collaboration, we aim to create an environment where sustainability is a shared responsibility”, he added.
The Permanent Secretary also noted significant improvements in air quality and environmental compliance, with the State witnessing compliance with the environmental regulations of the State Government.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Manager of LASEPA, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, highlighted the need to recognise industries that have made significant strides in environmental sustainability.
He stressed that the awards serve as an incentive to motivate industries to improve their environmental practices. “By offering recognition, we create healthy competition which drives industries to maintain high standards year after year”, the GM added.
The awards not only honour those that have excelled but also encourage others to improve and compete in the future, he said, adding that “Since the launch of LASEPA’s pollution abatement campaigns, compliance has increased from under 17% to nearly 40%, marking a major achievement in environmental compliance".
Crediting the achievements to industries installing pollution control systems, such as effluent treatment plants and emissions control systems, Dr. Ajayi outlined the criteria for selecting award recipients, including pollution abatement facilities, environmental sustainability efforts, and participation in carbon offset programmes.
The GM reiterated LASEPA’s commitment to ensuring industries comply with environmental regulations, particularly those that are known serial polluters. “We will not stop until we align more closely with global environmental standards”, he stated.
The event also featured performances, including a drama presentation by the students of Oregun Senior High School and another by Agidingbi Junior Grammar School students, highlighting the importance of environmental sustainability.
Awards were presented across the nine major industrial sectors to encourage them to do better. Guinness Nig Plc emerged as the overall winner across the nine industrial sectors that were invited.
Dignitaries at the event included Engr. Femi Afolabi, General Manager, Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LASWMO), represented by Engr. Majolagbe; Managing Director, Lagos Water Corporation, Engr. Muktar Tijani, represented by Mrs. Tumininu Jaiyeola and representatives from various private sector organisations.
This year's award ceremony underscores the vital role industries play in the environmental health of Lagos, and the Lagos State government’s continued efforts to foster sustainable development in the region.
More photos below.
Comments
Post a Comment