Nigerian teens create fashion from trash to fight pollution

In Nigeria’s largest city, Lagos, teenage climate activists are turning trash into fashion statements with a unique event called the “Trashion Show.” This initiative, organized by the conservation group Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative, aims to raise awareness about the severe environmental pollution affecting the city.

Lagos, one of the most populous cities in Africa with over 15 million residents, generates at least 12,000 metric tons of waste every day. However, the enforcement of environmental laws is weak, leading to significant pollution problems. According to the World Bank, pollution in Lagos claims the lives of at least 30,000 people each year.

The Trashion Show takes place at a critical time, coinciding with the conclusion of two weeks of U.N. climate talks in Egypt. The event is part of a broader effort by Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative to engage young activists and models in recycling plastic waste, aiming to transform one community at a time.

The organization regularly conducts trash clean-ups in various communities, including drainage ditches and beaches. The plastic waste collected from these efforts is then creatively repurposed into fabrics for the fashion show.

One of the participants, 16-year-old Nethaniel Edegwa, who was draped in a striking outfit made from red plastic spoons and fabric, joined the show with a clear purpose. “I want to make a change,” Edegwa said. “We can all see the impact of climate change, and I really want to make a difference.”

Through initiatives like the Trashion Show, these young activists are not only highlighting the importance of recycling but also inspiring others to take action against environmental pollution in Lagos.

In Nigeria’s largest city, Lagos, teenage climate activists are turning trash into fashion statements with a unique event called the “Trashion Show.” This initiative, organized by the conservation group Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative, aims to raise awareness about the severe environmental pollution affecting the city.

Lagos, one of the most populous cities in Africa with over 15 million residents, generates at least 12,000 metric tons of waste every day. However, the enforcement of environmental laws is weak, leading to significant pollution problems. According to the World Bank, pollution in Lagos claims the lives of at least 30,000 people each year.

The Trashion Show takes place at a critical time, coinciding with the conclusion of two weeks of U.N. climate talks in Egypt. The event is part of a broader effort by Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative to engage young activists and models in recycling plastic waste, aiming to transform one community at a time.

The organization regularly conducts trash clean-ups in various communities, including drainage ditches and beaches. The plastic waste collected from these efforts is then creatively repurposed into fabrics for the fashion show.

One of the participants, 16-year-old Nethaniel Edegwa, who was draped in a striking outfit made from red plastic spoons and fabric, joined the show with a clear purpose. “I want to make a change,” Edegwa said. “We can all see the impact of climate change, and I really want to make a difference.”

Through initiatives like the Trashion Show, these young activists are not only highlighting the importance of recycling but also inspiring others to take action against environmental pollution in Lagos.