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The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) have reiterated their commitment to reduce plastic pollution in the country.
To commemorate the World Environment Day on Monday, the organisations hosted a symposium in partnership with Forestry Association of Nigeria (FAN) in Oyo state.
Zacharia Buba-Yaduma, FRIN director-general, said plastic pollution is harmful to human health and marine life, adding that there is an urgent need for the government to reduce single-use plastic.
Buba-Yaduma urged businesses and individuals to find other alternatives to plastic that are sustainable for the planet and its inhabitants.
“Every year, about eight millions metric tons of plastic waste ends up in our oceans, causing harm to marine life and ecosystem,” he said.
“This pollution also affects human health as micro plastics have been found in food, water and even the air we breathe. One of the most effective ways to reduce plastic pollution is to reduce dependence on single-use plastic.
“Government can ban or restrict the use of single-use plastics such as straws, bags and utensils. Businesses and individuals can also take action by using sustainable alternatives such as biodegradable plastics or reusable containers and packaging.
Jumoke Olowookere, founder of Waste Museum Ibadan, said plastic waste contributes to climate change, adding that this has caused loss of plants and animals, food shortage, increased health risks and even severe storms.
Olowookere called for the reduction in the use of plastic, as well as the adoption of the reuse, recycle and upcycle policies to ensure a healthy and safe environment.
Peter Ogar, a researcher, said the government should invest into the research of transforming and using recycled plastics to make roads and bridges.
Ogar added that this would be achievable if a more circular economy is encouraged.
This story is published in partnership with Report for the World, a global service program that supports local public interest journalism.
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