Visionary Reports

The fight against plastic pollution took center stage on June 5, 2025, as Cameroon proudly celebrated the 53rd World Environment Day. Held in the conference hall of the Governor’s Office of the Littoral Region, this year’s event rallied authorities, environmental advocates, dedicated businesses, and the public under the urgent theme: “Fight Against Plastic Pollution.” The collective aim was clear: drastically reduce plastic waste to safeguard both public health and precious ecosystems.The day’s proceedings commenced with a powerful welcoming address from Edouard Yogouda, Regional Delegate of MINEPDED/LT. He underscored the critical role of World Environment Day within Cameroon’s national strategy to combat plastic pollution, a strategy set to achieve significant milestones by 2035. Yogouda acknowledged plastic’s undeniable presence in modern life but stressed the urgent need for sustainable waste management and reduced consumption.Following this, Ms. Moualeu Esther Nadine, Head of the Information, Awareness and Documentation Service at MINEPDED, delivered the compelling message from the United Nations Secretary-General, emphasizing the imperative of global unity in the face of this pervasive threat. Aboubakary Haman Tchiouto, Secretary General of the Governor’s Office of the Littoral Region, further highlighted Cameroon’s unwavering commitment to enforcing regulations against non-biodegradable plastics. He praised the crucial contributions of various stakeholders, organizations, and partners supporting the ministry in this vital endeavor, reiterating that plastic pollution poses a severe danger to health and the environment.This 53rd edition set forth clear objectives: to inform and educate the public and businesses about the perils of plastic waste, encourage source separation, decrease the use of single-use plastics, enforce the ban on packaging smaller than 61 microns, champion recycling and waste recovery, foster innovation for sustainable alternatives, and recognize environmentally compliant companies.The celebrations were enriched by several significant events leading up to the main day. Certificates of participation were awarded to schools, acknowledging the invaluable efforts of young people in promoting environmental awareness. A highlight was the “WED 2025” Awards ceremony, meticulously organized by the Departmental Delegate of MINEPDED/Wouri, which honored key regional players.

The prestigious Circular Economy Innovation Award was handed to ECOGREEN, a truly exemplary company. ECOGREEN distinguished itself through its comprehensive circular model, which encompasses the entire process from plastic waste collection to its transformation into R-PET. With a robust national presence in Douala, Yaoundé, and Bertoua, ECOGREEN annually recycles thousands of tons of plastic, showcasing remarkable operational efficiency and a profound environmental impact.The Outstanding Environmental Commitment Award was bestowed upon Nestlé Cameroon for its impactful “Nestlé Cares for Sustainability (NC4D)” initiative. The company has successfully implemented a holistic strategy that integrates waste management, eco-design, international certifications, and strategic partnerships for waste recovery. The jury commended Nestlé’s tangible efforts to reduce unsustainable plastic packaging and its innovative strides in energy efficiency.The official awards ceremony was presided over by Mr. Aboubakary Haman Tchiouto, Secretary General of the Governor’s Office of the Littoral Region, who warmly congratulated the winners for their exemplary dedication. He emphasized that these accolades serve as a powerful impetus for all stakeholders to unite, working towards making Cameroon a global exemplar in sustainable plastic waste management.Beyond the awards, organizers reiterated the strong focus on: Intensive public awareness campaigns regarding plastic use and disposal. Promoting robust recycling and packaging reuse initiatives. Strict enforcement against environmental offenses, including the application of fines. Prioritizing environmental sanitation and the reforestation of degraded areas. A broad information campaign highlighting available sustainable alternatives.This 53rd edition of World Environment Day in the Littoral region underscored a collective and unwavering mobilization against plastic pollution. Through this impactful celebration, Cameroon unequivocally reaffirms its commitment to preserving its natural resources and forging a healthier, more sustainable future for its citizens, in perfect alignment with international sustainable development goals.