In a bold move to tackle environmental challenges, the Lagos State Government has announced plans to ban single-use plastics, including pet bottles and sachet water, across the state beginning January 2025. This decision follows the earlier ban on styrofoam in government establishments and the metropolis in January 2024.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, revealed that the ban aims to establish policy guidelines for plastic utility, ensuring sustainable management of plastic waste and a healthy environment. The policy will be backed by an enabling law to guarantee compliance.
According to the Commissioner, “The alarming fact is that Lagos generates about 13,000 tonnes of waste monthly, with plastics accounting for over 60%. This has led to ecosystem degradation, drainage clogging, flooding, and ocean debris, ultimately harming humans and the state’s socio-economic well-being.”
Stakeholders have urged the government to implement the ban in phases, considering the current economic hardship. The Association for Table Water Producers of Nigeria has requested continued engagement with the government to ensure a smooth transition.
The ban is part of the state government’s priority transformational agenda, as outlined in the Lagos State Development Plan and Governor Bababjide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES’ Plus Agenda.
