Coca-Cola Nigeria Unveils Advanced Plastic Recycling Hub in Lagos
Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd., in partnership with its authorized bottler, Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC), has inaugurated a state-of-the-art packaging collection hub in Lagos, marking a significant advancement in Nigeria’s waste management and recycling infrastructure. This groundbreaking facility is designed to process up to 13,000 metric tonnes (MT) of plastic bottles annually, reinforcing Coca-Cola’s commitment to a circular economy and reducing packaging waste.
A Major Leap in Sustainable Waste Management
The new hub is part of Coca-Cola’s global sustainability initiative, aiming to incorporate 35-40% recycled materials in its plastic, glass, and aluminum packaging. It also supports the company’s goal of increasing the use of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) to 35% globally. By establishing this collection and processing center, Coca-Cola is taking proactive steps to tackle Nigeria’s plastic pollution crisis while fostering job creation and economic growth.
During the launch event, Zoran Bogdanovic, Chief Executive Officer of Coca-Cola HBC, emphasized the transformative impact of this initiative:
“By establishing this hub, we are not only addressing the critical issue of waste management but also creating jobs and fostering economic growth.”
Luisa Ortega, Coca-Cola’s Africa Operating Unit President, highlighted the hub’s role in streamlining PET collection and supporting rPET production through third-party partnerships:
“This initiative will facilitate PET collection, process materials into clean PET bales, and enable rPET production, driving sustainable change across Nigeria.”
Government and Stakeholder Support
Nigerian government officials have praised Coca-Cola’s investment as a crucial step toward achieving national sustainability goals. Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Trade and Investment, described the project as a strategic alignment with Nigeria’s environmental and economic agenda:
“This facility is a bold statement of commitment to sustainability, economic development, and environmental responsibility.”
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, Special Adviser on Circular Economy, lauded the initiative for its potential to significantly reduce plastic pollution in the state:
“By focusing on PET plastic collection and recycling, this hub will play a critical role in fostering a cleaner Lagos.”
Sen. John Enoh, Minister of State for Industry, acknowledged the facility as a milestone in Nigeria’s industrial evolution:
“This project demonstrates how industries can integrate sustainability into their operations, fostering both economic growth and environmental responsibility.”
Paving the Way for a Greener Future
Coca-Cola’s investment in Nigeria’s recycling infrastructure is setting a new benchmark for corporate social responsibility. The company’s strategic focus on sustainability underscores its long-term vision for waste reduction and environmental stewardship. As the facility begins operations, Coca-Cola aims to scale up this model, reinforcing its commitment to a cleaner and more sustainable Nigeria.
