Nestlé Trains 100 Plastic Waste Workers to Boost Safety and Sustainability in Nigeria 

Nestlé Nigeria has trained 100 plastic waste workers in Lagos and Abuja under its Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) Training Programme. The initiative is part of Nestlé’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and social inclusion. The training aims to equip waste workers with essential skills to improve safety, dignity, and efficiency in plastic waste handling. 

Skills That Protect and Empower 

The programme, supported by NESREA (National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency), the Recyclers Association of Nigeria (RAN), and the Food Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA), focused on: 

    Best practices in occupational health and safety 

    Proper handling of recyclable materials 

    Fire prevention and rescue techniques 

    Correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) 

Participants also received PPE kits to support safer working conditions and reduce health risks on the job. 

“At Nestlé, we are committed to building a waste-free future and recognise the crucial role plastic waste workers play in reducing pollution and facilitating a circular economy,” said Victoria Uwadoka, Nestlé Nigeria’s Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead. 

How You Can Benefit 

If you’re working or planning to work in plastic recycling or waste collection: 

    Seek training opportunities: Follow announcements from Nestlé Nigeria, RAN, or NESREA for future training sessions. 

    Register with recycling groups: Joining cooperatives or associations like RAN can increase your chances of benefiting from training and support. 

    Use protective equipment: Whether trained or not, prioritize your safety by using gloves, boots, and masks while handling waste. 

    Apply for jobs with responsible companies: Organisations like Maladase Ecopreneur and others who partner with Nestlé promote safe work environments and skill development. 

Nestlé Nigeria’s initiative highlights the importance of supporting the unsung heroes of our environment—waste workers. By offering training and safety tools, the company is helping to create a cleaner Nigeria and better working conditions for those on the frontline. Every Nigerian can support this cause by properly sorting waste, recycling, and promoting responsible environmental practices.