By Femi Akinola
The recent ban on Styrofoam and reuse plastic packs by the Lagos State Government has sparked criticism and concerns from manufacturers and distributors, who argue that the abrupt policy will result in business closures, job losses, and financial setbacks.
Ojo Ajewole, a distributor of reuse plastics, expressed his dismay at the perceived inhumanity of the state policy.
He highlighted the substantial investments made in becoming a distributor for two manufacturers of the now-banned reused plastics.
Ajewole stressed the importance of prior consultation with manufacturers before implementing such a ban, urging the government to consider phasing in the enforcement period rather than providing a mere three weeks for compliance.
According to Ajewole, the brief timeframe is insufficient for distributors to deplete their existing stock.
He emphasized the need for additional time to prepare for the policy’s implementation, considering the substantial network of retailers and outlets that need to adjust to the ban.
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Moses Durojaiye, a supplier of materials used in manufacturing the banned products, criticized the hasty implementation of the policy, stating that in a democratic society, such decisions should involve stakeholder consultations and gradual phase-outs.
Durojaiye called for an extension of the three-week ultimatum, suggesting a more realistic timeframe of at least three months.
Durojaiye expressed doubt regarding the government’s economic impact assessment on the policy and criticized the lack of stakeholder engagement in the decision-making process.
He recommended public enlightenment campaigns to inform the public about the dangers of Styrofoam and reuse plastic packs, allowing for a smoother transition before the ban’s enforcement.
In response, Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources in Lagos, affirmed the government’s commitment to the total ban on Styrofoam packs.
While acknowledging the concerns raised, Wahab maintained that the only moratorium offered by the government is a three-week delay in the commencement of enforcement.
He emphasized the adverse effects of Styrofoam on human health, the ecosystem, aquatic life, and the overall environmental landscape.
