How the French Institute of Nigeria is Leading the Way in Sustainability Practices
The French Institute of Nigeria has embarked on a significant journey towards sustainability through the introduction of various green initiatives since September 2024.
During a recent press conference in Abuja, the Deputy Director, French Institute of Nigeria, Lucille Haddad highlighted the institute’s efforts, which include the installation of solar panels, the creation of vegetable walls, and the provision of recycling containers for plastics and cans.
According to Haddad: “these initiatives have been made possible through the Institut Vert fund and partnerships with organizations such as Wonderwoman Nigeria, EcoCedar, and Ekondo.”
“Our commitment to environmental stewardship is in line with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which is integral to France’s governmental policies,” she said.
She underscored the importance of collective action in addressing climate change and urged Nigerians to adopt sustainable practices, including the use of renewable energy and responsible waste management.
Also speaking, Effiom Nyeh, the Chief Executive Officer of Ekondo, further encouraged the public to enhance their surroundings by planting more greenery and integrating nature into architectural designs.
“Plants can thrive on walls instead of solely on the ground. We have the concept of the “living wall,” which allows for the cultivation of herbs and flowers vertically, thereby contributing to environmental purification by mitigating carbon emissions,” Nyeh stated.
Anne Dirkling, the Vice President of Wonder Woman Nigeria, also addressed the audience, presenting their initiative titled ‘Plastic for Pads,’ aimed at eliminating plastic waste.
She explained that the collected plastics are repurposed to generate funds for providing sanitary pads to girls in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. Dirkling emphasized the importance of environmental protection and the collective responsibility to combat global warming.
