Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu advocates for biodegradable packaging in the Lagos food industry at the PROPAK West Africa 2024 Smart Packaging Conference. He emphasises the importance of eco-friendly packaging for food security and environmental sustainability. The governor urges food companies to adopt compostable materials to reduce waste and protect Nigeria’s future.

[dropcap]L[/dropcap]agos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for the use of biodegradable and compostable packaging materials by food processing companies.

He made this statement at the 11th edition of PROPAK West Africa 2024: Smart Packaging Conference, held at the Landmark Event Centre, Lagos.

Also read: Sustainability Summit: Lagos State leads the charge towards sustainable future

Sanwo-Olu, represented by Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose Medebem, stressed the vital role food packaging plays in driving economic growth.

He urged industry players to focus on eco-friendly solutions to help reduce food waste, which currently leads to significant post-harvest losses.

He noted that food security is a national priority, particularly as Nigeria’s population and economic ambitions grow.

Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasised that sustainable packaging could significantly reduce the 40% of food lost due to improper storage and packaging.

He encouraged stakeholders to adopt sustainable packaging technologies immediately and highlighted the need for cross-sector collaboration.

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, also addressed the global challenge of food waste and called for innovative solutions to reduce environmental hazards caused by plastic use.

The event gathered key stakeholders, including the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), to explore smart packaging strategies.

Ajayi, Director General of MAN, envisioned a future where everyone has access to nutritious food through smart, sustainable packaging practices.