Lagos organic waste initiative targets methane reduction through smart bins and bio-tech, supporting climate goals and circular economy development
Lagos organic waste initiative has officially launched as a collaborative effort between the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and Proganics Limited, aimed at cutting methane emissions, boosting recycling, and advancing the state’s climate action objectives.
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The Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, revealed that nearly 50 per cent of the 13,000 tonnes of waste generated daily in Lagos is organic—posing a serious environmental threat if not managed properly. He made this known during a stakeholder engagement forum held recently in Lagos.
“Sorting organic waste at source is critical to achieving the clean Lagos of our dreams,” Gbadegesin said.
“When sent to landfills, this waste generates methane, a greenhouse gas more dangerous than carbon monoxide.”
He noted that the Lagos organic waste initiative directly aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s COP28 pledge to curb methane emissions and reinforces the state’s leadership in Nigeria’s climate agenda.
In partnership with Proganics Limited, a 200-tonne capacity facility has been established to convert organic waste into animal feed and bio-fertilisers using advanced Black Soldier Fly technology—a circular solution already gaining traction in Kenya and Rwanda.
Gbadegesin added that smart waste solutions are being deployed, including RFID-enabled green bins and IoT sensors to track waste generation and enable efficient evacuation from hotspots such as restaurants, hotels, and event centres.
“This innovation improves operational efficiency, reduces pests and odours, and helps businesses cut down on waste management costs,” he said.
“Our goal is to enlist all major organic waste producers—including eateries, food manufacturers, and markets—into this initiative.”
He also hinted at potential financial incentives for organisations that comply with Lagos’ sorting policy, reinforcing the economic and environmental benefits of sustainable waste practices.
Speaking at the event, Augustine Ogee, Head of Corporate Strategy at Proganics, described the project as more than waste collection.
“This is about building value chains that generate jobs, support food security, and protect the environment,” he said.
Echoing similar sentiments, Dr Michael Bankole, Head of the Climate Change Department at the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, stressed the initiative’s role in broader climate reforms.
“Waste is no longer waste—it is a resource. We are working towards a systemic shift from landfilling to sustainable resource recovery,” he said. “A clean city boosts health, investment, and quality of life.”
Gbadegesin further explained that Black Soldier Fly technology would be a game-changer in Nigeria’s waste management landscape.
“We are separating food waste with smart green bins and directing it to our organic processing centres. This is technology-backed sustainability in action.”
In her remarks, Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie, National Chairperson of the Property and Environmental Writers Association of Nigeria, praised LAWMA for its continued innovation and assured media support in raising public awareness.
Also read: Smelly Lagos: Gbadebo, You Need a Breather
As the Lagos organic waste initiative gains traction, stakeholders believe it marks a vital step towards climate resilience, resource recovery, and a healthier, smarter Lagos.
