The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun (FUPRE), Professor Akpofure Rim-Rukeh has commended Centre for Waste Management and Sustainable Resources for its Zero campus initiative in Delta State.
Professor Akpofure underscored the importance of the initiative, stating that it marks the beginning of the end for improper waste disposal on campus.
He stated this during the launching of the Zero Waste Campus Project, organized by the Centre for Waste Management and Sustainable Resources, held at the university's new auditorium, Delta State where he drew a diverse audience of students, faculty, environmental experts, and community stakeholders.
He urged the Centre to prioritize the implementation of composting as a key strategy, aligning FUPRE with the nationwide Waste-to-Wealth initiative.
Professor Akpofure said. "This project represents a turning point for our university by managing waste more effectively, we are not only improve our campus environment but also contribute to broader environmental goals with the support of relevant agencies."
Speaking at the event, the Director of the Centre for Waste Management and Sustainable Resources, Dr. Yemi Ogunkeyede outlined the vision behind the Zero Waste Campus Project.
He described the initiative as a comprehensive approach to creating a sustainable ecosystem where responsible consumption, waste reduction, recycling and composting are integral parts of campus life.
"Our aim is to transform waste into valuable resources, " Dr. Ogunkeyede explained. "We want to create a culture where every member of the university community understands the impact of their waste and actively participates in reducing it."
Highlight of the event featured a range of activities designed to engage and inspire attendees. Waste to wealth talk was delivered by leading waste management professionals highlighted innovative strategies and best practices in sustainable waste management. Students also took center stage, sharing their creative ideas and projects on recycling, composting, and repurposing waste materials.
Interactive sessions and exhibitions provided hands-on demonstrations of recycling techniques, composting methods, and upcycling crafts, fostering a sense of community involvement and ownership.
Ogunkeyede added that. "The Zero Waste Campus Project is a key component of FUPRE's broader commitment to environmental sustainability, the initiative aims to reduce the university’s waste footprint to near zero by promoting practices such as waste segregation, recycling, and organic waste composting.
The environmental expert added further that It also aligns with global sustainable development goals, particularly those focused on responsible consumption and production, climate action, and creating sustainable communities.
"As FUPRE embarks on this ambitious journey, the project represents an opportunity for the university to serve as a model for other institutions across Nigeria and beyond."
"The university community and its partners are optimistic that the Zero Waste Campus Project will not only enhance the campus environment but also empower the next generation of environmental stewards, driving positive change for the future".
The event concluded with a call to action from Professor Rim-Rukeh, who encouraged everyone in attendance to support the initiative and contribute to a cleaner, greener future for the university and the wider community.
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