Top 5 Climate Change Initiatives to Volunteer for at the University of Lagos

By Haastrup Kofoworola, Owolabi Eniola, Ogbodo Loretta, Ani Chidinma and Daniel Nnam

From rising temperatures to increased drought, severe storms, and even increased health risks, it has become apparent that the world is facing severe threats from climate change. However, in its effort to contribute to reducing the escalating effects of this global challenge, the University of Lagos has increasingly become a centre for environmental activism and sustainability. 

The university offers a range of initiatives where students can actively participate in tackling climate-related issues, from waste management and energy conservation to raising awareness about the urgency of climate action. You should consider joining any of these initiatives to contribute to environmental preservation and acquire valuable skills that will serve you in academic and professional arenas.

1. The Green Club Unilag: This student-led organisation at the University of Lagos is passionate about environmental advocacy and enlightenment. Volunteering with The Green Club allows students to engage in hands-on environmental work. From organising clean-up campaigns to planting trees and promoting eco-friendly habits like recycling and reducing energy consumption. Network with like-minded individuals who are passionate about an environmental conversation.

2. Green Hub Unilag: Like the Green Club, UNILAG, the Green Hub is another student-led organisation focusing on sustainability and climate change action. Volunteers with Green Hub are involved in various activities, such as organising sustainability workshops, conducting awareness campaigns on climate change, and collaborating with other institutions to develop green campus strategies. 

Green Hub also works to foster partnerships with environmental NGOs, government agencies, and corporate entities to address pressing environmental issues on both a local and national scale.

3. UNILAG Plogga: UNILAG Plogga, a subsidiary of Plogging Nigeria, is a University of Lagos-based initiative focused on environmental conservation through “plogging”—a blend of jogging and litter collection. The group organises regular campus and community clean-ups while raising awareness about proper waste management and sustainability. 

Volunteers gain improved fitness, the satisfaction of making a real environmental impact, opportunities to connect with like-minded people, and skills in teamwork and leadership—all while helping create a cleaner environment.

4. GREEN FASU Initiative: Launched during the 11th Federation of African University Sports (FASU) Games, this initiative merges sports with environmental sustainability. Supported by UNICEF, it focuses on waste reduction, recycling, tree planting, and energy conservation, encouraging athletes and attendees to champion ecological action. Participants are rewarded for their contributions through a Carbon Medal Table that tracks their impact, with prizes like medals and devices awarded for outstanding efforts.

Students can join by supporting sustainability activities during events, promoting environmental awareness, and assisting with logistics. Volunteers benefit by developing teamwork and leadership skills, gaining recognition for their efforts, and contributing meaningfully to ecological preservation.

5. The UNILAG Sustainability Race: This is a notable initiative promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices within the University of Lagos community. The event highlights activities such as recycling competitions, awareness sessions on sustainability, and the unveiling of resources like the Green Hub—a centre dedicated to recycling and circular economy education. Winners of sustainability-related challenges are also recognised, encouraging active participation.

This initiative allows participants to gain practical sustainability knowledge, network with like-minded individuals, and develop impactful solutions while supporting a greener campus environment.

Volunteering for Sustainability Week allows students to work behind the scenes in event planning, coordination, and outreach. They also assist with logistics, media coverage, and engaging speakers and participants.

Volunteering for climate change initiatives at the University of Lagos provides students with meaningful ways to contribute to environmental sustainability while gaining valuable experience in climate action. If you’ve yet to join a climate initiative at Unilag, pick one from the list and become an active volunteer. Good luck!