The Lagos State government has officially prohibited the use and distribution of styrofoam and other single-use plastics, effective immediately. The decision, announced by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, is a response to the environmental challenges posed by these materials, particularly non-biodegradable Styrofoam.
Wahab highlighted the severe impact of styrofoam on drainage channels, causing regular blockages despite consistent cleaning efforts. He emphasized that a significant portion of litter on major roads and in markets consists of styrofoam, and the government cannot tolerate ongoing environmental degradation.
To enforce the ban, Wahab directed the State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) to take immediate action. These agencies are tasked with cracking down on production companies and distribution outlets involved with styrofoam in the state to prevent further distribution.
The commissioner justified the ban by citing various enabling laws and regulations, including the National Environmental (Sanitation and Waste Control) Regulation 2009, which prohibits single-use plastics in the country. Additionally, the 2017 State Environmental Management and Protection Law empowers the government to prevent activities likely to cause harm to human health or the environment.
Wahab urged stakeholders in styrofoam production, distribution, and usage to adhere to the ban, warning of substantial fines, penalties, and possible premises sealing for non-compliance. Producers may also be held responsible for the costs associated with daily cleanups of their products from roads and drainage channels, amounting to millions of naira.
