On March 18th, 2025, the Center for Transformative Environmental and Marine Law at Villa College's Faculty of Shariah and Law hosted a panel discussion on World Recycling Day under the theme "How Does Recycling Contribute to Climate Action on the Oceans?" The discussion, attended by 28 participants from students and academics, emphasized the role of recycling in climate action, ocean conservation, and sustainable development, aligning with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Recycling helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating climate change impacts on oceans (SDG 13: Climate Action). It also plays a crucial role in ocean conservation by reducing marine pollution, protecting biodiversity, and promoting sustainable fishing practices (SDG 14: Life Below Water). The discussion also addressed the importance of responsible consumption and production (SDG 12), highlighting how recycling reduces waste, encourages reuse, and promotes the adoption of recycled materials. Additionally, recycling contributes to clean water and sanitation (SDG 6) by minimizing water pollution and supporting sustainable water management. It also helps tackle waste management challenges in urban areas and promotes sustainable urban planning (SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities).

The panel featured distinguished speakers and experts, including Dr. Deborah Levy, Chief of Energy and Natural Resources Unit at the UN Economic Commission for Latin America, Mexico; Mr. Aliyu Shehu, Climate Change Consultant and Lecturer at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Nigeria; Dr. Oluwatobi Owojori, Specialist in Circular Economy at Tshwane University of Technology, South Africa; and Shaahina Ali, Executive Director of Parley Maldives.

Moderated by Dr. Tajudeen Sanni, Associate Professor, the discussion highlighted the importance of recycling as a key solution to environmental challenges, reinforcing the need for sustainable practices to protect the planet and its resources.