The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) says it is committed to improving environmental conditions and promoting public health.

The agency, in view of the commitment, visited the Iwaya fish-smoking community in the Bariga area of the state.

The visit, according to a statement on Friday, was to inspect the ongoing modern fish-smoking kilns installation project in the area.

“The initiative, a collaboration between LASEPA and RDD Associates Ltd., is designed to improve environmental conditions, promote public health, and enhance the livelihoods of local fish processors.

“The Iwaya community has traditionally relied on conventional fish smoking methods, which contribute to air pollution and pose serious health risks due to harmful emissions.

“In recognising these challenges, LASEPA introduced cleaner and more sustainable fish smoking technologies to mitigate environmental impact and improve overall well-being,” the statement said.

 It said LASEPA general manager Tunde Ajayi was represented by the director/head of air quality and emissions unit, Ayodele Oso, during the visit.

According to the statement, Mr Ajayi evaluated the air quality levels of the area. Also, he engaged community members on the benefits of the new smoking kilns project initiated by the state government.

 “Ajayi explained that the two newly -installed kilns, when completed, will utilise cleaner energy sources and reduce harmful smoke emissions while maintaining the quality of smoked fish.            

“He added that the waste generated from the smoking process can be converted into chicken feed, thus promoting a circular economy and turning waste into wealth.

“The general manager reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to improving air quality and supporting eco-friendly initiatives,” the statement said.

(NAN)