NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative, the Clean Waterways Initiative, aimed at raising awareness about the critical threat of plastic pollution and advocating for collective action to combat this pressing issue.
Mr. Abdulkadir Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer of NSML, emphasized the urgency of addressing the plastic crisis and its far-reaching implications for economic activities, human health, and the environment.
He underscored that plastic waste and marine pollution have infiltrated every marine ecosystem, exerting detrimental impacts on both the well-being of people and the health of the environment.
“Our waterways and the oceans they connect to are grappling with a pervasive plastic crisis. The intrusion of plastics and marine pollution into marine ecosystems has disrupted economic activities and posed risks to human health and the environment,” Mr. Ahmed stated.
“We all have a role to play in protecting our oceans. The NSML Clean Water Initiative is our way of contributing to the global effort to tackle plastic pollution. We urge everyone to join us in this important work.”
Highlighting the universality of the cause, Andy Odeh, General Manager of External Relations and Sustainable Development at Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), emphasized the essential role of water in human existence.
He further endorsed the initiative’s value in addressing the growing plastic pollution crisis.
The launch of the Clean Waterways Initiative aligns with global concerns over the escalating plastic pollution crisis.
The United Nations has reported that more than 8 million tonnes of plastic find their way into oceans annually, and projections indicate that by 2050, the mass of plastic in the oceans could surpass that of fish.
The Clean Waterways Initiative follows a comprehensive “TRIPLE A” strategy, encompassing Awareness, Advocacy, and Action.
It aims to increase public awareness, educate stakeholders, and drive policy changes at both sub-national and national levels.
The initiative’s focal points include clean-up initiatives, enhanced waste management practices, and promotion of recycling efforts to mitigate the influx of plastic waste into rivers and waterways.
The launch event was attended by stakeholders from the industry, underscoring the collective commitment to addressing plastic pollution and safeguarding marine ecosystems.
The NSML Clean Waterways Initiative signifies a significant leap forward in the ongoing battle against plastic pollution.
NSML is a subsidiary of NLNG. The private limited liability company provides shipping and maritime services which include training, manning, fleet management and consultancy services.