DPI Launches Plastic Management Initiative in FCT

Digital Peers International Launches Phase Two of Environmental Initiative

Digital Peers International (DPI) has launched the second phase of its environmental initiative aimed at engaging tech-savvy youths in managing plastic use and waste in the Federal Capital Territory and Nasarawa State. This new phase, titled 'Deploying the Power of IT-Engaged Youths in Effective Plastic Use and Plastic Waste Management 2.0,' was officially announced during a press conference held on Wednesday in Abuja.

The initiative is backed by the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme, which is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This collaboration highlights the importance of youth involvement in addressing environmental challenges through innovative digital solutions.

Dr. Ibukun Odusote, CEO of DPI, emphasized that the project equips young people with the necessary skills and opportunities to tackle plastic pollution while fostering innovations that benefit their communities. She pointed out that the initiative addresses Nigeria’s escalating plastic waste crisis by promoting youth leadership, digital innovation, and community-driven environmental action.

Odusote highlighted the far-reaching consequences of plastic waste, stating, "From clogged drainage systems that cause flooding to degraded farmlands, contaminated waterways, and microplastics threatening human health, the impact of plastic waste is felt in our homes, schools, markets, and ecosystems."

She further explained that plastic waste is no longer just an environmental issue but also a social, economic, and public health challenge. The initiative aims to address these multifaceted problems through targeted interventions and community engagement.

Phase one of the project, implemented in 2023, produced several ICT-driven solutions for waste monitoring, school and community recycling, and enhanced environmental awareness. These efforts laid the foundation for the current phase, which is designed to deepen youth participation, expand community impact, and strengthen local solutions.

The project adopts a team-based approach, requiring self-formed groups of four youths aged between 15 and 30. This structure encourages collaboration and ensures that diverse perspectives are brought to the table, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes.

Key Objectives of the Initiative

• Empower Youth Leadership: By involving young people in decision-making processes and project implementation, the initiative fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility.
• Promote Digital Innovation: Encouraging the use of technology to develop creative solutions for plastic waste management.
• Strengthen Community Engagement: Building partnerships with local communities to ensure that the initiatives are tailored to their specific needs and challenges.
• Enhance Environmental Awareness: Educating the public about the impacts of plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices.

How the Initiative Works

• Team Formation: Participants form self-directed teams of four individuals aged 15 to 30.
• Training and Capacity Building: Teams receive training on digital tools, waste management strategies, and environmental best practices.
• Project Implementation: Teams work on projects that address local plastic waste issues, such as waste monitoring, recycling programs, and community education campaigns.
• Evaluation and Feedback: Regular assessments are conducted to measure the impact of the projects and provide feedback for improvement.

Future Goals

Looking ahead, DPI aims to scale up the initiative to reach more communities across Nigeria. The organization plans to collaborate with other stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector partners, to amplify the impact of the program.

By leveraging the energy and creativity of young people, the initiative seeks to create lasting change in how plastic waste is managed and reduced. It is a step towards a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.