By our Reporter
The Lagos State Government has said that the ban on Single-Use Plastics, such as pet bottles, and sachet water, among others, would take effect from January 2025 across the state.
Recall that the state government had banned the use of styrofoam in all government establishments and across the state following the increasing prevalence of plastic waste and its negative effect on the environment in recent years.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced this at an event in Ikeja on Tuesday, October 2.
“Plastic waste materials make up a significant proportion of solid wastes and litter the metropolis.
“It has become a highly visible part of the waste stream, PET, Styrofoam and nylon for sachet water, popularly called ‘pure water’ commonly being used for water and beverages, take away plates and cups, carrier bags, among others.
“This development is posing environmental challenges ranging from ecosystem degradation, Drainage clogging and flooding, Lagoon and Ocean debris with attendant harm to humans resulting in high socio-economic impacts on the state.It will improve the situation of the State’s drainage channels and reduce plastic pollution in the marine environment.
“While the implementation of the ban on Styrofoam commenced on February 12, 2024, upon the expiration of a three-month moratorium, the State announced a six-month moratorium period for SUPs which was later magnanimously extended till the end of the year 2024 upon Stakeholders appeal to give room for more consultation while the ban on SUPs be effective by January 2025,” he said.