In a bold step towards promoting environmental sustainability and responsible waste management, the Lagos State Government has announced a new initiative that will pay residents for recyclable waste materials such as plastic bottles, cans, paper, and glass.
The programme, launched under the “Cash for Trash” initiative by the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), aims to encourage residents to adopt recycling as a lifestyle while creating green jobs and reducing pollution across the state.
According to the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the initiative aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration’s vision for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Lagos.
“This initiative is designed to reward residents for their environmental responsibility. By exchanging recyclables for cash or redeemable points, we are transforming waste into wealth while improving the city’s sanitation and reducing landfill pressure,”— Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, MD/CEO, LAWMA
Under the scheme, residents can deliver sorted recyclable waste to designated Recycling Exchange Centres or partner collection hubs across all local government areas in Lagos. Participants will be compensated based on the weight and type of recyclable materials they provide, with payments made through digital wallets or instant cash redemption.
The programme will be implemented in partnership with the Private Sector Participant (PSP) operators, recycling firms, and community development associations to ensure efficiency, transparency, and inclusivity.
“Our goal is to make recycling a rewarding part of daily life in Lagos. Every bottle, can, or paper recycled contributes to cleaner streets, job creation, and environmental preservation,” Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources
The Lagos State Government also emphasized the economic benefits of the initiative, noting that it will empower residents, especially women and youth, by creating income opportunities within the waste value chain.
Residents are encouraged to register on the LAWMA Recycle App or visit the nearest recycling centres to participate in the programme.
“This is more than a cleanup campaign; it’s a movement to make Lagos the recycling capital of Africa,”— Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu