NGOs declare support for styrofoam ban in Lagos

Some youth-led non governmental organisations (NGOs) have declared their support for the ban on styrofoam and single-use plastics (SUPs) by the Lagos state government.

On January 21, the Lagos government announced a ban on the usage and distribution of styrofoam and other single-use plastics across the state.

Tokunbo Wahab, commissioner for environment and water resources, said SUPs have become a menace in the city.

In a statement on Monday, the NGOs including U-recycle Initiative Africa, Plogging Nigeria, Aquaworld Community Development Initiative, Dhoney Adire and Crafts Nigeria, GreenWithGrin, Eco.Biz, Cleaner And Healthier Nature Initiative, among others, commended the Lagos state government for the ban, adding that such an action is a “significant step towards a cleaner future for Lagos and Nigeria”.

The groups added that “grassroot solutions alone cannot effectively eliminate plastic pollution crisis without stringent policies”.

“U-recycle Initiative Africa, Plogging Nigeria, Green With Grin, and other esteemed environmental NGOs and social enterprises in Lagos collectively express our full support for the recent decision by the Lagos State Government to ban the use of styrofoam food packs in the state,” the statement reads.

“As youth-led organizations dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship and sustainability, we have conducted climate education outreaches in rural communities, organized weekly cleanups across universities, and developed numerous innovative solutions to address the plastic pollution crisis across Lagos.

“Our efforts have reached over 25000+ youth and kids in Lagos, contributing to raising awareness and fostering sustainable practices.

“Recognizing the urgency of environmental issues in the state, we acknowledge that grassroots solutions alone cannot effectively combat the plastic pollution crisis without the support of robust policies and systems.

“Therefore, we commend the Lagos State Government for taking decisive action in banning styrofoam packs, a significant step towards a cleaner and more sustainable future for Lagos and Nigeria.”

The organisations highlighted the impact of styrofoam on the marine ecosystem as significant and life threatening, noting that it also clogs waterways, thereby causing erosion in the city.

They added that while the ban might come as a shock to businesses, it is a welcome development as some African countries like Rwanda have long effected a similar ban.

“The impact of single-use plastics, including styrofoam packs, on marine ecosystems and life is significant. Single-use plastic items not reaching landfills ultimately end up in our oceans,” the statement reads.

“These durable, long-lasting, non-biodegradable items, despite their popularity, pose potential harm.

“Beyond being an eyesore, styrofoam packs in waterways break into smaller pieces and when ingested by marine life, enters the food chain, leading to an abundance of microplastics in our meals.

“The environmental and health dangers of these items are extensive.

“As advocates for sustainable living, we recognize the urgency of addressing these negative impacts promptly. Thus, we genuinely commend the state government for its recent policy.”

They urged eateries to encourage individuals to come with their reusable plates and to use more biodegradable plates to achieve a cleaner Lagos.

The organisations also implored the state government to ensure full implementation of the ban.