Lagos State begins enforcement of the Single-Use Plastics ban by January 2025 to combat plastic waste and environmental pollution.
The Lagos State government has announced that enforcement of the ban on Single-Use Plastics (SUPs) will officially commence in two weeks. This move aims to combat the environmental challenges posed by plastic waste across the state.
Ban on SUPs and Styrofoam Usage
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed the development during a tour of flood-prone areas and ongoing projects around Lagos Island, including the Ilubirin Waterfront and Pump Station. Wahab reiterated that the state’s earlier ban on Styrofoam and SUPs for packaging, introduced in January 2024, will now enter its enforcement phase.
He emphasized that this action is part of Lagos State’s commitment to addressing the rising issues of plastic pollution, which has significantly impacted the environment.
“There is no going back on a total ban of SUPs. We are having discussions on how to phase them out completely. Enforcement will begin before the end of January,” Wahab stated.
Reduced Littering and Infrastructure Improvement
According to Wahab, littering caused by Styrofoam and other SUPs has already decreased since the initial introduction of the ban. The enforcement phase is expected to further reduce the prevalence of plastic waste in Lagos.
During his inspection of the Ilubirin Pump Station, Wahab noted the infrastructure built by Julius Berger, which includes functional drainage systems, road networks, and walkways. However, he highlighted that human negligence has clogged many of these systems, necessitating the current regeneration efforts.
“The Governor has re-awarded contracts for regenerating Lagos Island’s infrastructure. This tour ensures that contractors are prepared to commence work and potentially shorten the project timeline,” he explained.
Why the Ban Matters
Single-Use Plastics and Styrofoam contribute significantly to environmental degradation, clogging drainage systems and causing floods in urban areas. By enforcing this ban, Lagos State is taking proactive steps to:
- Reduce plastic pollution.
- Improve drainage functionality and reduce flooding.
- Promote sustainable waste management practices.
Conclusion
The Lagos State government’s enforcement of the Single-Use Plastics ban signals a critical step toward environmental sustainability. As enforcement begins, residents and businesses must adopt more eco-friendly practices to align with the state’s vision for a cleaner and greener Lagos.
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