In Lagos alone, where over 14,000 tonnes of waste are produced daily, much of it ends up clogging drains, encouraging floods, and releasing toxic fumes into the air. 

Still, every street corner is filled with piles of trash that never quite disappear.

For Anthony Obiorah, founder of TrashDisappears, this was a systems problem begging for a smarter solution, it wasn’t limited to a civic failure.

His Lagos-to-Abuja moving experience stimulated the idea. “I had lots of trash that I needed to dispose of,” he said. “It occurred to me that if I could sell them, I could actually make something from them. But when I went online to look for recyclers, I couldn’t find any. That was when I realised this wasn’t just an environmental issue, it was a connectivity problem.”

That moment birthed TrashDisappears, a young Nigerian startup building what Obiorah describes as a “smart waste ecosystem”, a platform that connects households, waste collectors, and recyclers through a simple mobile app. 

Using AI, the platform maps collection routes, classifies waste, and matches recyclers with verified waste streams.

It reframes waste not as an eyesore, but as data, information that, if organised, could clean cities, reduce emissions, and create jobs.

Nigeria’s waste value chain is greatly fragmented. Informal collectors, municipal trucks, and recyclers usually operate in isolation, without coordination or reliable data. Obiorah saw this gap early on and decided to take what he calls a “systems-level approach.”

“Yes, it was intentional,” he said when asked about his strategy. “We know the whole system has been fragmented. You just have collectors, you just have recyclers. There is no connectivity. What we are trying to do is create that marketplace that connects all the stakeholders.”

TrashDisappears aims to unify this broken chain, starting from the waste generator, to the collector, to the recycler, and back again to manufacturers who use recycled products. The app will allow users to snap a photo of their waste, and through AI, classify it instantly.

“When you use your phone and take a snapshot, the AI model tells you that this waste is in this category, either plastic, metal, or food waste,” Obiorah explained. “That way, it’s easier for you to know what waste you are sorting.”

Once uploaded, the system routes the request to available collectors, who can then find the most efficient route, optimised by AI to reduce cost, fuel consumption, and emissions.

The Power of Data in Dirty Work

In Nigeria, where many see waste management as a “low-tech” problem, convincing users and investors that data is actually important is no small task. But Obiorah insists it’s non-negotiable.

“If we are truly saying that we want to manage waste, data is key, because there’s nothing you can do effectively without data,” he said.

He believes that by digitising waste flow, TrashDisappears could eventually help cities plan better. “You must have a start point,” he continued. “You want to get a cleaner environment? You must know where it’s at the moment and what you need to achieve by a certain point.”

To build reliable datasets, the team collects and verifies data continuously through its AI module and partner networks. “We know it might not be possible for us to get 100%, but at least we have like 90% on how true our data is,” he said.

This data-centric model, he adds, will be invaluable to municipalities and private operators alike, helping them design smarter waste management strategies, forecast collection patterns, and enforce compliance.

A Platform Built on Partnerships

The startup’s partnerships stretch across the ecosystem, formal and informal. “We are collaborating with the municipal waste authorities,” Obiorah explained. “We are also collaborating with the unconventional collectors, the informal ones. One of the things we’re trying to do is to formalise them, bring them into a more organised sector.”

He adds that recycling firms and households are also part of this network. “We’ve had discussions with all the stakeholders in the value chain, because that’s really where we can achieve our goal.”

While bureaucracy is a challenge, TrashDisappears has found creative ways to operate within and around government frameworks. “We’re already having that conversation with them, and at the moment, they are being receptive,” he said. “But we also know that the informal sector is hugely untapped. That area doesn’t require too much government intervention.”

Not Yet Launched, But Already Moving

Interestingly, TrashDisappears hasn’t launched yet, but its plans are well underway. “We have started sensitisation, and we have developed our prototype,” Obiorah revealed. “We’re currently fundraising and have been invited to pitch at the African Innovation Dance Season Two next month. Based on our plans, we hope to launch by February next year.”

The app’s business model is built to balance commercial sustainability with environmental impact. “Part of our revenue streams is through transaction commissions,” he explained. “We’ll also have a freemium model, corporate partnerships, in-app ads, and a gamification feature where people can play games related to waste.”

There’s even a “share sphere” feature for giving out unused materials, whether freely or for a fee. “Our app opens up different avenues for revenue,” he said.

Beyond Waste: Building City Intelligence

For Obiorah, the ultimate vision for TrashDisappears goes beyond waste disposal. “Yes,” he said, “we see TrashDisappears as a potential data infrastructure provider, not just a waste platform. We want to use data for predictive analysis, to advise both generators and municipalities. We’re not just managing waste, we’re reducing it, creating cleaner cities, and educating people.”

The team plans to launch in Lagos and Abuja first, with expansion plans across Africa. “We definitely will explore carbon credit opportunities and regional expansion,” he said. “Our idea is for TrashDisappears to be a global platform.”

But scaling such innovation in Nigeria demands systemic change. When asked what single government policy he would change to support innovations like his, Obiorah paused briefly before saying: “We need to look at proper enlightenment.”

He believes that without public education and consistent enforcement, even the best technologies will fall short.

At its core, TrashDisappears isn’t only focused on cleaning streets, it’s trying to clean systems. It’s betting that data can make Nigerian cities tidier and smarter.

But rather than seeing these as roadblocks, Desco Electronic Recyclers views it as a springboard for innovation.

Here’s how the company is overcoming these challenges with practical, forward-thinking solutions.

Giulio Airaga, managing director of Desco, views these challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation.

“Recognising the financial burden that collection can impose on customers, leading some to opt for improper disposal methods, we’ve initiated several projects to mitigate these issues.”

In collaboration with partners like the E-waste Recycling Authority (ERA) and Makro, Desco introduced ‘eWaste Bins’ at accessible retail locations. This initiative simplifies the disposal process for consumers, encouraging responsible recycling practices.

“We’ve established branches across various regions, including Kempton Park, Belville, and Briardene, to facilitate easier access for informal collectors. By purchasing materials directly from these collectors, we incentivise the collection of e-waste and integrate informal recyclers into the formal recycling ecosystem,” he explains.

Understanding the vital role of waste pickers, Desco has developed programs to support and collaborate with them.

These individuals are crucial to the recycling ecosystem, and by providing fair compensation and resources, the recycler enhances their effectiveness and promote sustainable practices.

Beyond addressing collection challenges, Desco has made significant advancements in recycling technologies and processes:

• Comprehensive Recycling Services: The company specialises in dismantling electronic products into various commodities, focusing on plastic granulation, cable granulation, and circuit board grinding. This approach ensures that valuable materials are recovered and reintroduced into the manufacturing cycle.
• Data Safety Initiatives: Recognising the importance of data security, Desco has implemented protocols to ensure that all electronic waste is processed with the utmost attention to data destruction, safeguarding our clients’ information.

“Looking ahead, we see immense potential in the e-waste recycling sector. With Africa’s rapidly growing population and workforce, the volume of electronic waste is increasing. This presents an opportunity not just for waste management, but for job creation and environmental stewardship,” Airaga concludes.

By fostering a culture of responsible recycling and investing in the necessary infrastructure, we can turn the e-waste challenge into a sustainable industry that benefits both the economy and the environment.

In conclusion, challenges in e-waste collection and recycling are undeniable, but they are not insurmountable.

Desco chooses to view these challenges as catalysts for innovation, driving the company to develop solutions that benefit its customers and the communities it serves.

The initiative is designed to encourage Nigerians to return old or unused electronics for responsible recycling, while raising awareness about the environmental and health risks of improper e-waste disposal.

With millions of electronic devices reaching end-of-life every year, e-waste has become one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world.

Earth Day 2025 challenges us to harness our collective power—governments, businesses, and individuals—to transition toward renewable energy and responsible waste practices.

LG is answering that call by making it easier for customers to recycle, and by working with Hinckley Recycling to ensure that every returned product is safely and ethically processed using internationally certified methods.

“This initiative isn’t just about electronics—it’s about empowering people to be part of the climate solution,” said Mr. Paul Mba, corporate marketing manager, LG Electronics, Nigeria. Every year, tons of electronic waste—TVs, refrigerators, phones, and other gadgets—end up in landfills, harming the environment and human health. Many of these items contain materials that, if not properly handled, can pollute the air, water, and soil. That’s where this partnership comes in. Together with Hinckley Recycling, we’re giving Nigerians the opportunity to take meaningful action for the planet, starting with their own homes.”

Customers enthusiastically participated in the e-waste drive by dropping off their old, unused, or damaged electronics—ranging from televisions and refrigerators to microwaves, washing machines, air conditioners, and mobile phones—at designated Hinckley Recycling collection centres across Lagos.

These centres, set up to ensure ease and accessibility, became hubs of environmental action as households and businesses alike took the opportunity to declutter responsibly, while contributing to a cleaner, greener Nigeria.

Each item returned marked a personal commitment to sustainability, helping to divert harmful waste from landfills and ensuring that valuable materials could be safely recovered, reused, or recycled.”

“We’re proud to collaborate with LG on this impactful Earth Day campaign,” said Mr. Adrian Clews, managing director, Hinckley Group. “Our shared vision for a cleaner Nigeria is not just about what we collect—it’s about how we inspire the next generation to protect their environment.”

“Today’s young people aren’t just inheriting environmental challenges – they’re actively creating solutions,” said Mr. Bharat Kumar Kundra, Youth Champion and Change Catalyst at UNICEF.

“This partnership between LG Electronics and Hinckley Recycling represents exactly the kind of corporate initiative that resonates with youth. In my work across developing nations, I’ve seen how young people become powerful advocates for change when given the right tools and platforms. Nigeria’s youth population, with its energy and digital fluency, has the potential to transform this e-waste initiative into a nationwide movement. By connecting environmental responsibility with technology – something young people deeply understand – we’re not just managing waste; we’re cultivating the next generation of environmental leaders.” Bharat affirmed

By driving community participation and highlighting the value of circular economy practices, LG not only reduced environmental impact but also set a leading example for corporate responsibility in Africa and beyond.

Through “Recycle Today, Restore Tomorrow,” LG is showing that the path to innovation is also the path to restoration.

As Earth Day reminds us, the power to change the planet lies in our hands. And this April, LG is showing the world how that power can be used—one recycled device at a time.

Or where businesses rush to leverage artificial intelligence (AI), with 64% believing it will make their operations more productive—perhaps finally answering why Dave from accounting hasn’t submitted that report. 

AI, far from being a buzzword, has become the backbone of innovation, with the global AI market projected to balloon to $826.70 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 27.67% from 2025 to 2030.

Nonetheless, even with these numbers, the question of how we can ensure AI reaches its transformative state across industries, big and small, is still to be answered.

The truth is, AI is not just enhancing healthcare, finance, or manufacturing; it’s built to touch every corner of the economy. AI is expected to add $15 billion to Nigeria’s GDP by 2030 and drive 45% of total economic growth through product enhancements.

However, with nearly 40% of global jobs at stake, let’s see how AI can be a breath of new life into niche industries, rather than displacing them—sectors where AI hasn’t been fully leveraged but has huge changing power once well penetrated.

Why Niche Industries Matter

Niche industries, such as artisanal crafts, local fisheries, and cultural heritage preservation, may not grab headlines, but they are essential. These sectors:

• Preserve unique cultural identities,
• Support local economies, and
• Satisfy specialised consumer demands.

However, these industries usually combat inefficiencies, limited scalability, and dwindling interest, particularly from younger generations. Focusing on AI—a tool that promises to modernise these sectors while retaining their essence.

How AI Can Bolster Niche Industries

1. Handicrafts and Artisanal Goods

Challenges: Limited market reach, inefficient supply chains, and declining interest among younger generations.

AI Solutions: AI-powered e-commerce platforms can connect artisans with global buyers. Machine learning tools analyse consumer trends to recommend designs, while AI inventory systems reduce waste and optimise procurement.

2. Traditional Agriculture

Challenges: Low productivity and vulnerability to climate change.

AI Solutions: Predictive analytics can optimise planting schedules and forecast weather patterns. AI can also identify resilient heirloom crops, promoting biodiversity and sustainability.

3. Waste Management and Recycling

Challenges: Inefficiencies in sorting and recycling niche materials like e-waste.

AI Solutions: AI-powered robots can sort materials with precision, while machine learning models simplify recycling processes and predict market demand for recycled products.

4. Cultural Heritage Preservation

Challenges: Loss of historical artefacts, languages, and oral traditions due to inadequate preservation.

AI Solutions: AI creates digital replicas of artefacts, transcribes ancient languages, and develops great VR experiences to bring history to life.

5. Local Fisheries and Aquaculture

Challenges: Overfishing, unpredictable environmental changes, and low yields.

AI Solutions: Real-time analytics track fish populations and predict breeding seasons, while AI sensors monitor water quality and automate feeding processes, ensuring sustainability.

Deterrents to Adoption

Though we see obvious possibilities, AI adoption in these industries can be limited by:

• Cost: High initial investment deters small businesses.
• Technical Expertise: Lack of knowledge and training slows integration.
• Cultural Resistance: Fear of losing traditional methods and human touch.

For AI to flourish in niche industries, these obstacles must be addressed.

Some industries are already leveraging AI to great effect:

• Aquaculture: AI sensors are being used to monitor water quality and automate feeding for higher yields.
• Artisanal Goods: AI platforms help artisans optimise supply chains and expand global reach.
• Cultural Preservation: AI restores endangered languages, making them accessible for education and research.

Strategies for Revving AI Adoption

• Affordable AI Solutions: Develop cost-effective tools targeting small businesses.
• Education and Training: Provide industry professionals with the skills to use AI effectively.
• Collaborations: Ensure partnerships between tech companies and niche industry stakeholders.
• Policy Support: Governments should incentivise AI adoption through subsidies and tax breaks.

Balancing Innovation and Identity

AI doesn’t have to boom at the expense of tradition. The combination of cutting-edge technology with a deep respect for cultural heritage and localities can modernise niche industries without erasing their identity.

So, while adopting AI, we must learn how we can ensure this technology serves as a tool for empowerment rather than displacing not just jobs, but our heritage. We need collaboration, innovation, and a focus on equity, ensuring even the smallest industries benefit from this trillion-dollar scale-up.

This is particularly concerning considering that a substantial portion of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), estimated at 70-80%, is potentially recyclable.

It has been projected that by 2050, the volume of waste will triple from 174 million tonnes per year as of 2016 to approximately 516 million tonnes per year across the African continent. 

This is majorly due to major changes Africa is experiencing, through ever-expanding urbanization, growth in population and increase in economic activities. 

These factors present various reasons for concern, as for a growing continent, the need for recycling all the waste being produced becomes increasingly important.

A whopping 19 of the world’s 50 biggest dumpsites are found in Africa and are mostly located in Sub-Saharan Africa. Imported goods account for a large portion of these generated waste products as many companies find Africa as a good location to send their products, containers, packaging and all. 

Nigeria is one of the leading producers of waste in the African continent, according to the Yale Center for Environmental Law and Policy, with 32 million metric tonnes of waste annually. 

Nigeria also falls among the 30 countries with the worst waste management practices out of 180 countries in the world. Accounting for a growing population of over 200 million people, these numbers are only expected to rise in the coming years. 

Being a continent that barely recycles 4 percent of its total waste Africa finds itself in a serious mess, literally. The need to have everyone onboard to tackle this problem takes priority and should be handled by all parties involved, from the government to global unions, corporations, manufacturers, and industries.

Leading the charge for this discussion at the World Trade Organisation’s Trade and Environment Week from the 7th to 11th of October, FREEE Recycle, the Nigerian integrated waste recycling and manufacturing company, proposed an initiative that was in line with this year’s edition, “Trade for Clean Energy Transition for All”. 

Addressing the WTO at the high-level session on “the challenge of managing the end-of-life cycle of imported tyres into Nigeria,” Mrs. Ifedolapo Runsewe, managing director, FREEE Recycle, stressed the need for policies and implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the need to repatriate EPR funds to fill the technology gap in developing countries.

“There is a need for programs to subsidize and exempt recycling equipment from import duties and tax exemptions for purchasing recycling equipment. For the Nigerian economy and indeed Africa to successfully be part of the recycling conversation there is a pressing need for affordable recycling materials and patient financing for recycling operations. Developing countries tend to be hit worst of all in the amount of waste being produced and deposited and there is the urgency to support clean energy transition for these regions”.

The conference presented the delegates from FREEE Recycle the opportunity to showcase their green products all made from recycled rubber tyres. 

FREEE also had the privilege of meeting and introducing the company and products to the Director General of the WTO Mrs Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. 

Products were showcased to the Director General, while highlighting the impact being made in Nigeria within the 4 years of operation. 

The Director General further expressed her satisfaction and happiness with the products and the impact being made by FREEE Recycle to redefine waste management in Africa by transforming waste into valuable resources while creating economic opportunities for local communities.

While leading the charge on the global stage, FREEE Recycle is also championing the Recycle narrative locally through its ongoing commitment to building a sustainable future.

This is seen in their recent partnership with Access Bank through the FREEE Impact Foundation, launching eco-friendly playgrounds and the production of over 4,500 sandals for students at various schools across Ibadan. These playgrounds and sandals were produced from recycled discarded tyres. 

The project provides children with eco-friendly footwear encouraging improved school attendance, enhanced academic performance, and better health outcomes for the children. The playgrounds guarantee safe and fun spaces to play while promoting environmental sustainability through waste repurposing. 

Reinforcing FREEE Recycles’ commitment to a better, safer environment, encouraging socio-economic growth. Additionally, this initiative reinforces our commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 4 on Quality Education and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals. 

The company remains committed to making a change in Nigeria and the African continent through an innovative approach to waste management, targeted partnerships and social impact.

In transforming waste into valuable resources and creating economic opportunities, the company is paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for Africa.

As global concern for the environment escalates and regulators take measures to tackle electronic waste (e-waste), particularly through the enactment of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws, it becomes imperative to carefully evaluate the costs and advantages associated with EPR compliance.

The mounting accumulation of discarded electrical and electronic gadgets poses a significant challenge for South Africa.

As per information provided on Gauteng’s official government platform, the nation generates approximately 360,000 tons of e-waste annually, with the Gauteng province contributing to 55% of this total.

It’s imperative to enhance consumer awareness regarding the proper disposal methods for their electronic devices to prevent an environmental crisis.

EPR legislation

In November 2021, a significant milestone passed for manufacturers, importers, and distributors in South Africa dealing with electric and electronic equipment, lighting products, batteries, and packaging.

Although the new EPR legislation places the responsibility on importers and manufacturers to ensure environmentally friendly management of their products, which may include product recycling, its success could be severely impeded if consumers remain uninformed about how to handle their old appliances.

The EPR legislation marking a pivotal moment in the country’s efforts to address the mounting issue of e-waste and promote a circular economy.

This legislation obligates producers to take responsibility for their products throughout their entire lifecycle, ensuring responsible recycling and disposal at the end of their usefulness.

The aim of EPR legislation is clear: to curb the environmental impact of waste products, particularly e-waste and lithium-ion batteries, which have long plagued landfills and ecosystems.

However, while the legislation presents a necessary step forward, its implementation has faced challenges and met with resistance from producers.

EPR legislation encompasses a range of products, including e-waste, lighting, batteries, and packaging. Among these, e-waste and lithium-ion batteries stand out as focal points due to their significant environmental impact and complex recycling requirements.

Guidance and support for producers

As a result, many producers have turned to companies like Desco Electronic Recyclers for assistance in the complexities of EPR compliance, particularly in the realm of e-waste and battery recycling.

With over three decades of experience in electronic recycling, the company can help producers fulfil their obligations under EPR legislation.

In recent years, it has expanded its services to include the recycling of lithium-ion batteries, recognising the critical need to address this emerging waste stream.

Through pilot studies and investment in technology, Desco has developed specialised solutions for lithium-ion battery recycling, providing producers with a viable option for responsible disposal. However, despite the availability of recycling solutions, producers have faced reluctance and pushback in complying with EPR legislation.

For many, the prospect of additional costs and administrative burdens associated with EPR compliance has been met with resistance. Moreover, the role of Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs) in enforcing compliance has led to further apprehension among producers.

Driving positive change 

As a trusted partner for producers, Desco offers guidance and support in addressing the complexities of EPR compliance.

By providing transparent reporting and tailored solutions, the company enables producers to meet their obligations under the law while minimising the administrative burden and costs associated with compliance.

Central to its approach is the emphasis on choosing the right PRO and ensuring transparent communication between producers, recyclers, and regulatory authorities.

By facilitating direct access to data and compliance reporting, Desco empowers producers to make informed decisions and advocate for their interests within the EPR framework.

Through innovation, collaboration, and advocacy, the company aims to drive positive change in the electronic recycling industry and pave the way for a more sustainable future.

[Featured Image Credit]

Crown Records Management, a global leader in information management, has underlined its commitment to helping businesses embrace digitisation and reduce their reliance on paper-based records.

With over 30 years of experience in the field, Crown Records Management has become synonymous with document storage, document digitisation, secure disposal, and document shredding services that empower organisations to manage their corporate memory efficiently.

The business landscape is a fast-paced, data-driven world today. One where efficient records management is a fundamental requirement for businesses of all sizes.

As we continue our journey into the digital age, where information flows seamlessly, and remote work becomes increasingly prevalent, it’s crucial for organisations to adopt practices that not only enhance efficiency but also align with environmental sustainability.

Let’s explore the environmental benefits of digitising company records and how this shift can make a significant impact on our planet.

Reducing Paper Usage

One of the most obvious environmental advantages of digitising company records is the substantial reduction in paper consumption. Traditional record-keeping often involves printing countless documents, resulting in significant paper waste. By going digital, companies can dramatically decrease their reliance on paper, conserving trees and reducing the carbon footprint associated with paper production.

Minimising Energy Consumption

Storing physical records in expansive filing systems or off-site storage facilities consumes considerable energy for climate control and lighting.

In contrast, digital records require minimal physical space and energy for storage. Cloud-based solutions and energy-efficient data centres further reduce the environmental impact of digital record-keeping.

Cutting Transportation Emissions

Physical records often necessitate transportation for filing, retrieval, and secure destruction. These transportation activities contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. By digitising records and implementing secure, remote access systems, companies can significantly reduce the need for physical record transportation, thereby lowering their carbon footprint.

Enhancing Recycling Opportunities

While the move to digital reduces the need for paper, it also opens up opportunities for recycling and responsible disposal of outdated electronic equipment.

Proper recycling practices for old laptops, scanners, and other electronic devices can prevent harmful e-waste from ending up in landfills and promote the reuse of valuable materials.

Supporting Remote Work and Reduced Commuting

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work, reducing the need for employees to commute to offices daily. Digitised records enable remote access, further encouraging this eco-friendly trend. Less commuting means fewer carbon emissions from vehicles, leading to cleaner air and a reduced environmental footprint.

Promoting a Culture of Sustainability

Going digital with records management isn’t just about environmental benefits; it’s also a step toward fostering a culture of sustainability within your organisation. By leading the way in sustainable practices, businesses can inspire employees, clients, and partners to embrace eco-friendly initiatives, both in and out of the workplace.

Most companies are mindful that managing information effectively is valuable, but it can also be a costly headache. Fuelled by the exponential growth of data, advances in technology, changes in regulation, cost efficiency drives, risk management and the need for competitive advantage, staying in control of ever-growing information is impossible without help.

Similarly, while the knowledge and experience locked in company archives is an asset that can underpin core business, extracting value from this asset can appear complex and daunting.

Crown Records Management boasts a rich legacy of serving over 20,000 clients worldwide across 40 industry sectors.

With a remarkable storage capacity of 33.2 million cubic feet and 24.7 million cartons stored globally, the company is dedicated to safeguarding the invaluable information that fuels businesses.

What sets Crown Records Management apart is its unwavering focus on providing local solutions, with 98% of its business being locally procured and contracted.

The environmental advantages of digitising company records are significant and cannot be overlooked.

Beyond the clear operational benefits, such as improved efficiency and accessibility, companies that make the transition to digital records also play a role in reducing their environmental impact.

By minimising paper usage, cutting energy consumption, reducing transportation emissions, and supporting remote work, organisations can contribute to a more sustainable future while reaping the rewards of streamlined, eco-conscious records management.

[Featured Image Credit]