Chanja Datti Recycling Co.

Environmental pollution is estimated to be one of the biggest causes of death around the world, affecting more than 100million people per year, more than Malaria and HIV. Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Nigeria has an estimated population of 1.4 million people associated with its fast growing pace of urbanization. This has led to the city's struggle to adequately manage its Municipal Solid Waste, which is an estimated 378,040 tons yearly. Barely 40% of solid waste generated is formally collected to the few designated dumpsites, while the remaining 60% of uncollected waste, 15% of which is non-biodegradable waste, find their way into waterways, drainages and streets. Nigeria's plastic industry has grown from 50 companies with a production capacity of 100 tons in 1960, to over 3,000 companies with a production capacity of over 100,000 tons per year. Plastics and rubber products recorded a growth rate of 23.8% in 2013, attributed to polythene and plastic packaging, which constitutes the fastest growing segment of the industry, but also one of the largest contributors of non-biodegradable waste pollutants. The formally collected 40% of the waste generated is managed by combustion and landfill methods by the regulatory and supervisory body, the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB). These methods lead to the release of greenhouse and other toxic gases into the atmosphere, thereby encouraging climate change, soil degradation and erosion, and the depletion of our natural resources, biodiversity and landscape. The uncollected 60% of the waste generated become eye-sores and nauseating heaps on and around street corners. A significant proportion clogs the waterways and drainages, leading to flooding and breeding of disease causing microorganisms from stagnant water. Chanja Datti was borne out of the need to save our environment from looming environmental disaster or crisis associated with indiscriminate waste disposal and poor waste management cultures in Nigeria, especially in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory; and open up entrepreneurial and employment opportunities for youths and women.


🏆 Afri-plastics Challenge Strand 1 Second Runner Up Winner 2023