Nigerian students and university libraries have been charged to spearhead the country’s transition from a plastic-polluted society to a climate-smart, zero-waste nation.
Arnold Mwanzu, Associate Professor of Environmental Studies at Aga Khan University, gave the charge on Thursday while delivering a keynote address at a virtual event organised by the Library and Information Science (LIS) Programme, University of Lagos (UNILAG), in commemoration of World Environment Day. This year’s global theme was ‘Ending Plastic Pollution’.
Speaking on the topic “Eco-Conscious Librarianship: Eradicating Plastic Pollution and Achieving Planetary Health,” Mwanzu said libraries are not only custodians of knowledge but also potential hubs for environmental sustainability.
“A green library is more than a physical space, it reflects a commitment to sustainability, with policies that reduce waste and educate communities,” he said. “Let every library become a hub of sustainability. Let every librarian, student, faculty be a green ambassador. The future of planetary health depends on what we do today.”
He called on the University of Lagos to adopt sustainable practices and policy frameworks that would position its libraries as models of ecological leadership.
Citing global benchmarks, Mwanzu referenced successful climate initiatives in countries such as Rwanda, Kenya, and India. He praised Kigali, the Rwandan capital, for emerging as one of Africa’s cleanest cities following its ban on single-use plastics.
“To support this shift, we must eliminate plastics, install refill stations, use reusable items, and embed clean-up initiatives in student culture,” he said. “From tree planting in library precincts to strategic partnerships with climate-focused NGOs, we must move from awareness to action.”
Mwanzu proposed the adoption of the “3Rs” reduce, reuse, recycle alongside tailored environmental policies, waste segregation systems, and campus-wide behavioural change.
He acknowledged the financial limitations faced by many public institutions but maintained that UNILAG had “the brilliance, the voice, and the vision” to lead Nigeria’s green library revolution.
“This is not a moment. It is a movement. Let our libraries be loud, let them be green, and let them be fearless. Let’s eradicate plastic. Let’s protect the planet. Let’s inspire the next generation,” he declared.
Also in attendance at the webinar were Prof. Adelaja Odukoya, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences; Prof. Oloruntola Sunday, Head, Department of Mass Communication; Prof. Yetunde Zaid, former University Librarian; Dr. Adefunke Alabi, convener and LIS programme coordinator; and Associate Professor Ibitayo Popoola.
Dr. Alabi said the event was organised to highlight the growing role of librarians in combating plastic waste and driving environmental sustainability in academic environments.
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