by Niyi Jacobs
Lagos State residents are worried about the potential consequences of the state government’s plan to ban single-use plastics (SUPs) and sachet water.
The ban, which is set to take effect in January 2025, is aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability. However, residents are concerned that it will lead to job losses and disrupt economic activities.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, has announced that the ban is necessary to protect public health and the environment. He noted that styrofoam and single-use plastics take centuries to degrade, making the ban essential for environmental protection.
However, residents are appealing to the government to reconsider the ban, as it will heavily impact their livelihoods. Water vendors, in particular, are concerned about the impact of the ban on their businesses, as they rely heavily on sachet water for their livelihood.
The government is working with private sector organizations to provide alternatives to styrofoam containers and other SUPs, as well as supporting research into new technological solutions. However, the proposed ban has already caused uncertainty among stakeholders, particularly in the manufacturing and retail sectors.
A Sales Manager at Aremson Water Ltd., Mr. Akinyemi Bolaji, has expressed his concerns, stating that the ban will make a lot of people unemployed. “The ban will have a devastating impact on our business and the livelihoods of our employees,” he said.
The government’s efforts to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability are commendable, but it is essential to consider the potential consequences on the livelihoods of residents and businesses. A balanced approach that takes into account the needs of both the environment and the people is crucial.
As the implementation of the ban approaches, residents and stakeholders are calling on the government to engage in further consultation and explore alternative solutions that will minimize the impact on livelihoods.