Don unveils Innovative Biomass-Plastic Waste Management for Propelling Sustainable Circular Economy Growth in Low-Income Nations at LMU’s 6th public lecture

• Post by: lmu
• October 31, 2023
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Dr. Adewale Adeniyi, a distinguished researcher on sabbatical at Landmark University’s Department of Chemical Engineering, has unveiled groundbreaking advancements in plastic waste management. His innovative approach aims to foster a sustainable circular economy in low-income nations. Dr. Adeniyi delivered his presentation at the university’s 6th Public Lecture held at the International Conference Centre on August 25, 2023.

During the lecture, Dr Adeniyi emphasized the inevitability of biomass-plastic waste generation in our contemporary era due to population growth and the lack of sustainable waste-to-energy management options in low-income countries. Despite a substantial increase in plastic waste generation, only a mere 20% has been recycled. He proposed the deployment of biomass-plastic co-processing technologies to drive sustainable development and circular economy practices. This involves utilizing biomass plastic waste as secondary raw materials.

In his discussion on advancing circular economies in low-income nations, he outlined the crucial steps required to achieve this goal. Dr Adeniyi’s focus on biomass plastic waste highlighted its environmental impact and the potential products derived from it. He raised questions about optimizing outcomes and highlighted the significant role researchers play in this pursuit. Additionally, he highlighted the environmental hazards linked to these wastes, such as contributing to global warming. 

Dr. Adeniyi delved into two key methodologies he has explored. The first method involves utilizing soluted polystyrene as a matrix for plastic composite development, while the second entails biomass plastic carbonization. These techniques have been successfully applied in collaboration with sawdust and rice mills in the production of wood-plastic composites. He argued that these initiatives would address unemployment concerns and contribute to overall economic improvement. The second approach he introduced involves creating bioplastic composites from biomass plastic which has been deployed for the development of bulletproof materials capable of withstanding AK47 bullets from a distance of five meters. Dr Adeniyi highlighted the potential of this process for low-income economies. He further introduced a third method, carbonization, which he believes could stimulate economic growth through bioplastic co-production.

In closing, Dr Adeniyi reiterated the feasibility of a circular economy that enables plastic recycling while maintaining a zero-waste environment. He expressed his unwavering commitment to realizing this visionary goal. 

In her opening remarks, Vice-Chancellor Professor Charity Aremu underscored the pressing concern surrounding waste disposal within the community. She emphasized that when managed effectively, waste could be transformed into solutions for societal challenges, effectively converting waste into valuable resources. She concluded by extending congratulations to Dr Adeniyi, the Public Lecturer, commending his pioneering work in plastic waste management. She highlighted the lecture’s significance not only for the institution but also for society at large, aligning with a goal outlined in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development agenda.

The Registrar, Engr. Adebayo Ajala, also addressed the audience, extending a warm welcome to the academic community and esteemed guests present at the 6th Public Lecture. Expressing gratitude for the event’s realization, he expressed his hope that the lecture would catalyze meaningful social change. He anticipated that the lecturer’s insights, accomplishments, and experiences would inspire transformation.

The event attracted distinguished figures from Landmark University, the University of Ilorin, and the Standard Organisation of Nigeria Ilorin. Among these notable attendees was Professor K. O. Ajanaku – the Landmark University’s newly appointed Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Ojediran, Landmark University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor. The occasion was enriched by the presence of esteemed individuals, including HRM Oba AbdulRaheem Adeoti, the Olomu of Omu-Aran, along with his Council of Chiefs, as well as Prof. Rotimi Okuloye, Dr. John Adepoju, Eng. Ayobami Popoola, Mr. Ebuka, and Ms. Joy Adeleke. Their goodwill messages resonated powerfully, underscoring the lecture’s significance in addressing societal needs.

Dr Adewale Adeniyi while delivering the 6^th Public Lecture of Landmark University

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aremu receiving the 6^th Public Lecture booklet from the lecturer, Dr Adewale Adeniyi

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aremu presenting souvenirs to the lecturer, Dr Adewale Adeniyi (M) while Professor K. O. Ajanaku – the Landmark University’s newly appointed Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Ojediran, Landmark University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor and the Registrar, Engr Adebayo Ajala look on with admiration.

HRM Oba AbdulRaheem Adeoti, the Olomu of Omu-Aran, giving his goodwill message at the 6^th Public Lecture of Landmark University 

Prof. Rotimi Okuloye giving his goodwill message at the 6^th Public Lecture of Landmark University

Onsite and online participants at the Landmark University’s 6^th Public Lecture

The 6^th Public Lecturer, Dr Adeniyi, in a group photograph with students from Hallelujah High School and Landmark University Staff Secondary School

The 6^th Public Lecturer, Dr Adeniyi, in a group photograph with the Olomu, his chiefs and the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aremu

The 6^th Public Lecturer, Dr Adeniyi, in a group photograph with management of Landmark University and Olomu and his chiefs

The 6^th Public Lecturer, Dr Adeniyi, in a group photograph with members of faculty in the Department of Chemical Engineering 

The 6^th Public Lecturer, Dr Adeniyi, in a group photograph with his guests

The 6^th Public Lecturer, Dr Adeniyi, in a group photograph with his guests