Pulse.ng : Red cross, NCSE sensitise market, residents on plastic pollution dangers

By Sani Idris Abdulrahman

The Nigerian Red Cross Society, Chikun Local Government Area (LGA) Division in collaboration with the Network of Civil Society in Environment (NCSE), has sensitised traders at Sabon Tasha market and other residents on the dangers of plastic pollution.

The organisations, also sensitised the traders and residents on the need for a cleaner and safer environment.

This, was in commemoration of the World Environment Day 2025, with the theme "Beat Plastic Pollution".

Speaking during the event on Thursday in Kaduna, Secretary of the Red Cross, Chikun LGA Division, Mr. Shekwogaza Audu, emphasised the urgency of taking proactive measures to combat the rising tide of plastic pollution in the LGA.

Audu, represented by Mr. Simeon Olatunde, lamented that rivers, drainage systems, roadsides, and markets are increasingly littered with non-biodegradable waste which poses health risks, clogs infrastructure, and diminishes environmental quality.

He, therefore encouraged the traders at Sabon Tasha market and its environs to take ownership of their environment by keeping it clean, safe, and habitable.

Also, the Coordinator of NCSE in Kaduna, Ms. Gloria Bulus, said Nigeria, like many countries, faces significant environmental challenges arising from improper waste management especially plastic pollution in urban and rural communities.

Bulus, represented by Uche Egbe, the
Program Lead of NCSE, noted that Chikun LGA, is not exempted from the growing problem.

Bulus, therefore said the rally, was aimed at raising a community-wide awareness on the dangers of plastic pollution and inspire collective action toward reducing, reusing, and recycling plastics.

She added that it was aimed at educating the public on the environmental and health impacts of plastic waste; mobilising youth, civil society organisations, market women, and community leaders to take action.

She equally said the rally was aimed at promoting sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the event featured a practical demonstration, as volunteers picked up plastic waste around the market area to model proper waste disposal practices.

NAN also reports that the team planted 10 trees within the YMCA premises in Chikun, reinforcing the message of environmental stewardship and sustainability.

The rally is part of a broader global campaign, urging communities worldwide to shift away from single-use plastics and embrace eco-friendly habits.

World Environment Day, celebrated every 5th of June, is the United Nations’ principal platform for encouraging awareness and action for the protection of the environment.

In 2025, the global theme which is “Beat Plastic Pollution,” reflects an urgent need to address the growing crisis of plastic waste which threatens ecosystems, human health, and sustainable development.(NAN)