With a landmark step to address the escalating environmental crisis, the Lagos State government, along with some other states, has enforced a ban on the use of styrofoam within its jurisdiction. This decision comes in response to the alarming levels of plastic pollution plaguing our communities and ecosystems, prompting a significant shift towards sustainable alternatives in the food industry.
Amidst this pivotal moment, Babatunde Sorinola, founder of Careyout Paper Packs, emerges as a driving force in championing eco-friendly takeaway packaging solutions. Sorinola’s journey is marked by a deep-seated commitment to environmental stewardship, rooted in his extensive background in Mass Communication, French, Literature, and Digital Marketing.
Careyout Paper Packs, under Sorinola’s leadership, has pioneered innovative solutions to address the pressing challenges posed by plastic and styrofoam pollution. Leveraging his expertise and entrepreneurial acumen, Sorinola and his team have developed a diverse range of sustainable packaging options tailored to the needs of food businesses across Nigeria.
“The ban on styrofoam presents a critical opportunity for us to enact positive change and pave the way for a greener future,” Sorinola remarked during a recent interview with journalists. “At Careyout Paper Packswe are committed to providing viable alternatives that not only mitigate environmental harm but also empower businesses to make responsible choices.”
Indeed, the need for such alternatives has never been more urgent. According to The Nigerian Economic Summit Group, Nigeria is estimated to generate an average of 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with its commercial capital, Lagos, generating 870,000 annually. According to the UN data from environmental organizations, consumption of plastics in Nigeria jumped by 116.26 per cent within a period of 15 years to 1.25 million tonnes, with a significant portion attributed to single-use packaging materials. This influx of waste has profound implications for our environment, clogging waterways and drainages, leading to flooding, threatening wildlife, contaminating waterways, and exacerbating climate change.
Despite facing initial challenges in market penetration, Careyout Paper Packs has persevered, garnering recognition as a leading provider of sustainable packaging solutions and earning accolades both locally and internationally. The recent opening of a new location in the Tejuosho market, Yaba, and plans for expansion into Port Harcourt underscore Sorinola’s vision for the widespread adoption of eco-friendly practices in the food service industry.
As Nigeria embarks on a journey towards sustainability, Babatunde Sorinola and Careyout Paper Packs stand at the forefront of this transformative movement, inspiring change and shaping a future where environmental responsibility and business innovation go hand in hand.
