Latest news with #TokunboWahab
The Star
a day ago
- Business
- The Star
Ban on single-use plastics takes effect in Nigeria's Lagos
ABUJA, July 1 (Xinhua) -- The authorities in Nigeria's southwestern state of Lagos, the country's economic hub, on Tuesday began enforcement of the ban on single-use plastics below 40 microns to address environmental concerns and promote sustainability. Tokunbo Wahab, the commissioner for environment and water resources in Lagos, told reporters at a press conference that any store found storing or selling single-use plastics would be sealed, while warning everyone to desist from such acts. "There will be no going back from July 1 on the enforcement of the ban on single-use plastics, which are less than 40 microns in Lagos State," Wahab said. Offenders will be punished according to the environmental laws of the state, he said, noting that extensive public awareness campaigns had been conducted since the ban was announced in January 2024. The ban also includes styrofoam food containers. The ban is mainly part of a comprehensive effort to mitigate the adverse effects of plastic pollution on the environment and public health, Wahab said. The government does not, however, ban the production of all categories of plastics and has encouraged producers and distributors of the banned items in the state to take the option of selling them outside Lagos. Local environmental protection experts and activists hailed the development, describing it as "a positive step towards addressing the global plastic crisis." In an earlier phone interview with Xinhua, Niran Alebiosu, a Lagos-based environmentalist, said the ban on styrofoam and single-use plastics reflects a growing awareness of the need for sustainable practices to combat environmental degradation. "As Nigeria's economic powerhouse takes this significant step, it sets an example for the entire nation and underscores the importance of collective efforts in preserving the planet for future generations," Alebiosu said, noting that the detrimental impact of plastic pollution on marine life, soil, and air quality has raised global concerns, prompting governments and communities to take proactive measures. "The ban aligns with international best practices and demonstrates Lagos State's commitment to achieving a cleaner and greener environment. Businesses and individuals are urged to adopt sustainable alternatives, such as biodegradable materials, to comply with the new regulations," the expert added.
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Lawmakers announce sweeping ban on common restaurant items: 'Will be required to switch'
Lagos, a large Nigerian city home to more than 20 million people, has banned single-use plastics. As Business Day reported, the government will start enforcing its plastic ban July 1. Single-use straws, cutlery, bags, and other plastic items have contributed to environmental degradation in Lagos and other cities, especially on coasts, around the world. When plastics are discarded into the trash, they often end up in drainage systems and impact marine animal habitats. Lagos' plastic ban follows its Styrofoam ban, which the city introduced in January 2024. Since then, city officials have worked with plastic-alternative producers and marketers to ease the transition for residents and businesses. Officials are committed to enforcing the plastic ban with measurable compliance standards and penalizing those who violate it. "This is about environmental responsibility. We have given ample time to align with global best practices. What is unacceptable elsewhere cannot become standard in Lagos," Tokunbo Wahab, a city commissioner, said. This news is encouraging because of the huge impact it will have on people living in the region. Megacities such as Lagos generate excessive amounts of plastic trash. When well-enforced, single-use plastic bans can make beaches, parks, waterways, and neighborhoods cleaner and safer for people and animals. Plastic straws, for example, take approximately 200 years to decompose. Banning plastics helps reduce pollution and limit the amount of microplastics that leach into the environment and infiltrate bodies. Many cities have passed single-use plastic bans to curb plastic waste in their communities. Fortunately, excellent plastic alternatives are available instead of the throw-away products you've grown accustomed to using. It is also now easier than ever before to buy items you need from brands offering plastic-free packaging. Should the government ban gas stoves? Yes Only in new buildings Only in restaurants No way Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. With Lagos' plastic ban in place, the city can serve as an example for other cities in Africa and worldwide. As Africa's largest city, Lagos has emerged as a leader in fighting global plastic pollution. Lagos' government clarified that its single-use plastic ban "will not include PET bottles, water sachets, or nylon bags thicker than 40 microns." "Hotel and restaurant operators, retailers, and street vendors will be required to switch to approved eco-friendly packaging or face penalties, including fines up to ₦50,000 per offense and possible suspension of operating licenses," Blueprint News wrote in a Facebook post. "Residents are encouraged to adopt reusable bags, stainless steel or bamboo straws, and compostable food packaging." Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
