Circular economy models, panacea for waste reduction – Don

Ini Billie, Uyo

Vice Chancellor, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo, has proffered circular economy models as a panacea for waste reduction and means to mitigate climate change.

Ndaeyo said since the linear economy type of production has proven to be inefficient, the other viable option was the circular economy.

Speaking on Friday in Uyo during a chemical and environment seminar on the theme, “Circular Economy: Activating Greener Minds among Academia, Industry and Government Practitioners”, the VC maintained that the academic, industry and government were culprits in the depletion and disequilibrium of the natural setting that has resulted in climate change.

He said efforts, opinion and experience in redeeming the economy to where it ought to be, was commendable.

He said: “Circular economy is the way to go, not linear, of course, we know that linear is inefficient, if it is circular, the tendency to recircle is there. And of course, to reactivate the mind for us to think green economy.

“A lot of waste, climate change and the attendant efforts of which is is more pronounced this year in Nigeria than any other year are just reasons why we should come around and form a forum to think of what to do.

“I commend all thinking in this direction, I don’t have any doubt that the communique that will emanate from the interaction with help change the system.”

While speaking, the Chairman of the American Chemical Society, Prof. Joshua Obaleye, noted that despite the turbulent experience of both natural and unexpected circumstances facing the world, the organisers set out to host the programme.

Obaleye challenged participants to bring out innovative ideas and share knowledge aimed at educating, sensitizing and creating awareness of green chemistry and engineering in meeting sustainable development goals.

On her part, Director, International Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability Research, University of Uyo, Dr Edu Inam said the forum’s objective is to, “integrate green chemistry into school curriculum in the primary, Secondary and tertiary institutions because green and sustainable economy plays a significant role in achieving the SDGs”.

Inam expressed satisfaction with the various presentations, saying it would help in the transformation of the country’s economy, adding that the training is concentrating on the trainers to be able to impact the students at various levels.