Jumoke Olasunkanmi
The Ministry of Environment has announced a ban on the use of single-use plastics in all government agencies.
This decision, which aims to promote waste reduction and environmental sustainability, comes in response to a recent report by the African Health Report (AHR), which highlighted the dangers of single-use plastics and advocated for the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives.
Single-use plastics, including bottles, wrappers, straws, and bags, have long been a cause for concern due to their negative impact on the environment.
Speaking at a two-day top management retreat in Kaduna with the theme: “Policy Embedment and Prioritization of Key Action for Renewed Hope in Environmental Management”, the Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics, Stanley Jonah emphasised the need for staff to lead by example and implement personal climate actions within their respective environments.
He stressed the importance of collaboration with relevant stakeholders and the inclusion of small-scale producers and the informal sector in the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programme.
“There is a need to build capacities, provide frameworks and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to access additional funding for environmental sustainability.
“To ensure the success of this initiative, the ministry recognizes the importance of funding, effective communication, and conflict management mechanisms. The document outlining the ministry’s stance emphasizes the need for collaboration with stakeholders and the inclusion of small-scale producers and the informal sector in the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programme.
“As part of the ministry’s comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability, a ‘Circular Nigeria committee’ will be formed, chaired by the Director-General of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA). This committee will be responsible for implementing the circular economy roadmap, prioritizing mentorship, institutional knowledge transfer, and succession planning.”.
