Beating Plastic Pollution for a Cleaner Environment and Good Health

21st Jun 2023 | Source: Vivo Energy Ghana

Employees of Vivo Energy Ghana and United Way Ghana distilling gutters during the clean-up exercise

According to the United Nations Organisation, more than 400 million tonnes of plastic is produced annually worldwide, half of which is designed to be used only once. Of that, less than ten percent is recycled and an estimated 19-23 million tonnes end up in lakes, rivers and seas annually. Tiny plastic particles up to 5mm in diameter also find its way into food, water and the environment.

The above statistics underscore the importance of this year’s World Environment Day in mobilising transformative action against plastic pollution. It is against this backdrop that Vivo Energy Ghana, the exclusive marketer and distributor of Shell branded fuels and lubricants has partnered with the United way Ghana, to mark this year’s World Environment Day under the theme ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’. The collaborative effort aims at raising awareness about the harmful effects of plastic pollution by engaging in a clean-up and community sensitisation exercise at the La Enobal Basic School and its environs.

World Environment Day celebrated annually serves as a global platform to promote environmental awareness and encourage positive actions for the protection of our planet.

Together with pupils of the La Enobal Basic School, volunteers of both companies collected various forms of plastic wastes within the school premises and its surroundings, which will later be sold to plastic waste collection companies to generate cash for the school.

Recognising the significance of education in driving sustainable change, the collaboration included a community sensitisation programme where community members received valuable insights through interactive sessions and discussions on the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on the environment and human health. The aim was to empower the community members to become advocates for positive change in their community and beyond whilst making good use of plastic waste through recycling.

Speaking on the initiative, the Corporate Communications Manager of Vivo Energy Ghana Shirley Tony Kum who spoke on behalf of the Managing Director stated that, "at Vivo Energy Ghana, we are committed to making a positive impact on the environment and the communities we operate in. Our partnership with the United Way Ghana on World Environment Day allows us to actively engage in the fight against plastic pollution. We believe that by raising awareness and taking collective action, we can contribute to building a more sustainable future."

The Executive Director of the United Way Ghana, Felix Kissiedu added that, "the cleanup and community sensitisation exercise at the La Enobal Basic School is a testament to the power of collaboration. We are grateful for the support of Vivo Energy Ghana in our mission to create a cleaner and healthier environment. By involving the pupils and employees from both companies, we believe we can inspire a generation of environmental stewards who will champion the cause for years to come."

Vivo Energy Ghana’s partnership with the United Way Ghana for the commemoration of the World Environment Day reflects the organisation’s dedication to environmental sustainability by promoting responsible waste management practices and empowering local communities.