Transforming Waste into Wealth: Ifedolapo Runsewe's Impact on Women and the Environment

In Nigeria, Ifedolapo Runsewe, founder and CEO of FREEE Recycle Limited, is at the forefront of sustainable development, transforming discarded tyres into valuable products while empowering women and protecting the environment. 

Ifedolapo holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics from Madonna University and a Master's in Public and International Affairs from the University of Lagos. Her career began in the banking sector, with roles at Zenith Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank in Sierra Leone, and Access Bank Plc, where she served as a branch manager. However, her passion for environmental conservation led her to establish FREEE Recycle Limited in 2018, commencing operations in 2020.

Nigeria faces a significant environmental challenge, generating over three million waste tyres annually. These tyres, when improperly disposed of, contribute to pollution and health hazards. Witnessing hazardous piles of burning tyres at landfills inspired Ifedolapo to act. Through FREEE Recycle, she processes over 1,000 tyres daily, converting them into rubber mulch and other eco-friendly products used in playgrounds, athletic tracks, and landscaping projects. This initiative not only reduces environmental pollution but also promotes a circular economy by diverting waste from landfills.

Ifedolapo's commitment extends beyond environmental sustainability; she is dedicated to empowering women, particularly in male-dominated industries. FREEE Recycle provides employment opportunities, with a workforce that includes a significant number of women. By involving women in various aspects of the recycling process, from collection to production, she fosters economic independence and skill development. Additionally, through partnerships with organizations like Access Bank and the Oyo State Ministry, FREEE Recycle has launched initiatives aimed at empowering school children and women, further amplifying her social impact.

Ifedolapo's innovative approach has garnered international recognition. She has been featured by the United Nations Environment Programme and Forbes magazine, highlighting her as one of the "100 Most Inspiring Women in Africa." Her work exemplifies how women's participation in male-dominated industries can benefit society, promoting environmental sustainability and economic growth.

Ifedolapo Runsewe's journey from banking to environmental entrepreneurship illustrates the profound impact one individual can have on society and the planet. By addressing environmental challenges through innovative recycling methods and empowering women along the way, she sets a precedent for sustainable development in Nigeria and beyond. Her story is a testament to the power of vision, determination, and the belief that transforming waste into wealth is not only possible but essential for a sustainable future.

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