LASEPA, Finsbury Heinz host compliance workshop to promote sustainable practices among Lagos Industries

 By Tunji Faleye

The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), in collaboration with Finsbury Heinz Limited, on Thursday held a one-day sensitization workshop aimed at improving compliance with environmental sustainability regulations among industrial and commercial establishments in the state.

The session, themed “Regulatory Compliance for Sustainable Development Today and Tomorrow”, was designed to update participants on effective waste management practices and align them with evolving sustainability standards at both state and global levels.

Speaking at the event, LASEPA’s General Manager, Dr. Tunde Ajayi, stated, “the theme of our workshop underscores the importance of compliance in achieving sustainable development. We will explore best practices, share experiences, and deliberate on strategies for balancing economic growth with environmental protection to achieving sustainable development.”

He stressed that the pursuit of a healthier and safer environment demands the active involvement of all stakeholders. According to him, “All stakeholders will be involved in the implementation of the state government policy direction on the newly signed MOU in addressing all forms of environmental violations and infractions that can hinder our collective efforts towards a safer, cleaner and sustainable environment that can guarantee a livable society in the future.”

Dr. Ajayi reaffirmed that regulatory adherence is essential for safeguarding the environment while enabling sustainable economic growth, adding that LASEPA is determined to ensure Lagos remains both livable and prosperous.

Engr. Jamiu Badmus, Managing Consultant of Finsbury Heinz Limited and a partner in the initiative, underscored the importance of adopting sustainable practices. “Sustainability is so critical because it’s about the ‘Ps’ which stands for the people, the profit and the planet,” he said, urging participants to find innovative ways to convert waste into income-generating opportunities.

He added that the Lagos State Government is making significant efforts to involve every segment of society in sustainable practices to enhance the state’s livability. He encouraged individuals and organizations to actively support the government’s vision by becoming more environmentally conscious.

Also speaking, Alhaja Abdulwarees Solanke, Director of Research and Development, LASEPA advised attendees to comply with the state’s sustainability guidelines, stressing that non-compliance could attract sanctions.

Ms Yetunde Omiwale , Deputy Director and Head of Unit, Monitoring and Compliance Department at LASEPA, explained that the agency organized the seminar to keep stakeholders informed and aligned with international sustainability standards. “We want our industries and commercial facilities to be compliant because many things are going on in our society being caused by our activities. That’s why we deem it fit to organize this seminar to remind ourselves of what to be done,” she said.

From the private sector, Iheayichukwu Obinna, Environmental Executive for the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Ikeja Branch, described the workshop as valuable for industry players. He noted, “this shows a close relationship between uregulators and manufacturers, but specifically ” I would like to say that the kind of relationship experienced today is better. We want a regulation that will make our manufacturers remain in business, and both parties will effectively work towards achieving a sustainable society.”

Sustainable development refers to meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, ensuring a balanced approach that supports economic progress, environmental stewardship, and social well-being.

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