In the call for environmental stewardship and technological innovation, stakeholders from various sectors converged at the Waste-to-Energy Summit organized by Rack Centre and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Community Development Service.
The summit under the theme “Driving Environment Sustainability” highlighted the imperative need to transform waste management practices into sustainable energy solutions across Nigeria.
Representatives spanning the Information Technology sector, environmental specialists, academia, and government officials gathered to advocate for the judicious use of landfill resources for energy generation. They emphasized the importance of reducing waste volume and harnessing its potential to mitigate environmental hazards and health risks associated with unchecked landfill growth.
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, who represented the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources at the summit, underscored the urgency of effective waste management in Lagos State, where daily waste generation exceeds 30,000 tons amid a burgeoning population of over 20 million. He emphasized the critical role of sustainable practices in combating pollution and carbon emissions.
Lars Johanson, CEO of Rack Centre, articulated the company’s commitment to sustainability through energy-efficient practices in data centre operations. He highlighted the significance of measuring and optimizing Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) as a key metric for minimizing energy consumption and maximizing operational efficiency. Johanson also outlined Rack Centre’s proactive approach to integrating sustainable design and materials in expanding its data centre campus.
Ezekiel Egboye, Rack Centre’s COO, reinforced the importance of data centres adopting green energy practices to support a sustainable economy. He pointed out the potential for job creation through initiatives such as transforming the Olusosun landfill, envisioning a future where waste management not only preserves the environment but also stimulates economic growth.
Dolapo Olaoluwa, the summit’s convener from NYSC Community Development Service, shared insights into the event’s inspiration, citing firsthand experiences near the Olusosun landfill in Lagos. He stressed the need for collaborative efforts to innovate and implement sustainable solutions that align with global environmental goals.
Throughout the summit, discussions and presentations underscored the transformative potential of waste-to-energy initiatives in Nigeria. Participants exchanged ideas on leveraging technological advancements and policy frameworks to optimize waste management practices, reduce landfill impact, and promote sustainable development.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to continue advocating for sustainable energy solutions and fostering partnerships that prioritize environmental conservation and community development. As Nigeria progresses towards a greener future, initiatives like the Waste-to-Energy Summit are crucial milestones in shaping a sustainable path forward.