In an exclusive interview with Jumoke Olowookere, Creative Director at African Creative Sustainable Energy Hub, we discussed her organization's mission to create a sustainable world without waste through education and upcycling. Olowookere shared her inspiring story of how she turned her passion for sustainability into a career, and her vision for a cleaner, greener Oyo State.
From Passion to Career
Olowookere's journey began 14 years ago, during her maternity leave, when she noticed the amount of waste she was generating in her kitchen. She asked herself, "Why do I have to throw this waste away? Can't there be another life for each of these wastes?" This question sparked her interest in waste management and upcycling, and she began exploring ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle waste.
African Creative Sustainable Energy Hub
Olowookere's organization, African Creative Sustainable Energy Hub, is a social enterprise company registered in Nigeria under the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). The company aims to create a sustainable world without waste through education and upcycling, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 4, 8, 11, 12, 13, and 17.
The State of Waste Management in Oyo State
When asked if Oyo State is cleaner today than it was in the past, Olowookere replied, "I think Oyo State is cleaner than the past, but there's still much work to be done." She attributed the improvement to the government's efforts and the increasing awareness among citizens. However, she emphasized the need for more education and community engagement to sustain the progress.
The 5Rs and U Approach
Olowookere advocates for the 5Rs and U approach to waste management: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Refuse, Repair, and Upcycle. She believes that if people have better information about waste management, they can make informed choices and take responsibility for their waste. If she were in a position of authority, she would focus on educating the public about the 5Rs and U approach and empowering them to make sustainable choices.
Value and Money from Waste
Olowookere highlighted the various value chains in waste management, including segregation, sorting, and upcycling. She emphasized the importance of understanding the structure and architecture of waste and identifying the different forms of waste generated in households, companies, and communities. According to her, a kilogram of plastic bottle waste can be sold for a price, depending on the form and the buyer. Upcycled products, such as furniture made from tires and plastic bottles, can also generate income.
Rating the Government's Performance
When asked to rate the performance of the Oyo State government in waste management, Olowookere gave them a score of 3 out of 10. She acknowledged the government's efforts but emphasized the need for more community engagement, education, and stakeholder involvement. She also suggested that the government should inculcate waste management into the laws and education system.
The Waste Museum: A Beacon of Circular Economy
The Waste Museum, located in Ibadan, is a flagship project of ACSSH. The museum serves as a hub for waste management education and innovation, showcasing the potential of waste as a resource. The Waste Museum is a testament to the organization's commitment to promoting a circular economy and reducing waste.
Collaborative Efforts for a Sustainable Future
Achieving a sustainable future requires collaborative efforts from all stakeholders. Olowookere emphasizes the need for government, private sector, and community stakeholders to work together to address the challenges of waste management. By partnering with organizations like ACSSH, stakeholders can leverage innovative solutions and expertise to create a more sustainable Ibadan.
Jumoke Olowookere's story is a testament to the power of passion and innovation in driving sustainability. Her organization's mission to create a sustainable world without waste is inspiring, and her vision for Oyo State is compelling. As we strive to achieve the SDGs, it's essential to learn from pioneers like Olowookere and work together to create a better future for all.
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