Second round of nationwide pollution reduction campaign to begin tomorrow

Addis Ababa, June 4, 2025 (FMC) – The second round of Ethiopia’s nationwide pollution reduction campaign will officially begin tomorrow, June 5, under the theme “Shaping a Culture of Clean Living in Ethiopia,” the Ethiopian Environmental Protection Authority has announced.

At a press briefing, Ms. Lelise Neme, Director General of the Authority, stated that the campaign will be launched at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa. The opening ceremony will be attended by senior federal and regional government leaders, members of the diplomatic community, development partners, heads of public and private sector organizations, and community representatives.

Ms. Lelise explained that the first round of the campaign focused on public awareness initiatives, urban clean-up drives, and identifying and correcting legal loopholes. The experience also helped establish best practices in environmental management and community engagement.

This year’s campaign launch coincides with the 52nd observance of World Environment Day, marked globally under the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution.” Ethiopia will be celebrating the day for the 32nd time, with events planned across the country.

According to the Director General, the campaign aims to increase public awareness about environmental protection, ensure compliance with environmental laws, and recognize exemplary efforts by institutions in both the government and private sectors.

The movement will target key issues such as plastic, water, and soil pollution, invasive weeds and soil acidity, noise pollution, and the enforcement of environmental and social impact assessment procedures.

Ms. Lelise noted that the campaign seeks to directly engage 15 million citizens and reach an estimated 50 million people through national media. She urged all communities to contribute to building a cleaner Ethiopia for future generations and called on media outlets and the general public to support the campaign’s success.