
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 plastic 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.
Plastic Recycling: 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.”
Read more: Is It Time to Use the Stick to Get Nigerians Serious About Recycling?
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.