Unilever Nigeria announced its achievement of plastic neutrality in November 2024, highlighting it reached a milestone in its efforts to tackle the country’s plastic waste crisis.

In a statement, Unilever explained the accomplishment means it has collected and processed more plastic than it introduced into the environment through the sale and distribution of its products.

The Managing Director of Unilever Nigeria, Tim Kleinebenne, described the achievement as part of the company’s commitment to creating a circular economy where plastic remains in use and out of the environment.

“Our plastic is our responsibility, and so we are committed to collecting back more than we sell,” Kleinebenne asserted. “I sincerely hope that our example inspires more companies to join this important initiative.”

The Unilever MD highlighted the company’s long-term sustainability strategy, adding, “We will continue to double down on our sustainability focus by using our collection models to ensure a healthier planet while also improving livelihoods through the creation of new job opportunities.”

The company revealed it partnered with Wecyclers, a local recycling company since 2014 to collect over 13,000 tonnes of plastic and create employment for more than 1,000 people.

The Chief Executive Officer of Wecyclers, Olawale Adebiyi, commended Unilever Nigeria’s dedication to sustainability, remarking “Working with Unilever over the years has been a progressive journey of impact, collaboration, and partnership.”

Adebiyi highlighted initiatives Unilever Nigeria supports, including the Wecyclers Recycling Exchange Program, which allows individuals to drop off recyclable materials at designated kiosks.

He also revealed Unilever facilitated the establishment of 26 franchise locations through a corporate-backed Impact Bond program: “These models are spread across the country and have played a key role in helping Unilever achieve its goal of collecting more plastic than it generates.”