In the bustling streets of Lagos, the recent ban on styrofoam products was meant to signal a new era of environmental responsibility.
However, despite the government’s efforts, styrofoam continues to be a common sight, raising questions about the effectiveness of the policy as food sellers relying heavily on these familiar foam products of various colours.
The ban, announced with immediate effect, aimed to address the significant waste pollution plaguing Nigeria’s economic hub. Yet, the reality on the ground tells a different story.
“I didn’t even know there was a ban,” remarks Bukky, a street food vendor known for her spicy jollof rice. “I’ve been using these styrofoam plates for years, and nobody ever told me I couldn’t.”
Others echo Bukky’s sentiment, unaware of the prohibition or its implications. “I get my supplies from the same place I always have,” says Uwem, a cooked noodles seller, as she pours her cooked noodles into the stereofoam plate, popularly called ‘takeaway pack’. “If they’re selling it, I’m buying it. Simple as that.”
From street vendors to local markets, styrofoam containers remain the go-to solution for food service and delivery.
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This persistence underscores the challenges of implementing and enforcing such bans, especially when alternatives are not readily available or affordable for those in the informal economy.
Some vendors claim they’re cognizant of the ban but find themselves in a bind due to the lack of viable alternatives. “Sure, I know about the ban,” states Mrs. Obioma, a roasted plantain vendor, her voice tinged with resignation. “But what choice do I have? Until they start selling something else, I’ll keep using what I can get that is cheap. I dont sell the plates; I cut one into two and use one part each time to serve my customers. Plastic plates are expensive now.”
Others claimed to be aware of the ban and its negative environmental effects but are helpless as they cannot find another cheaper alternative.
“Of course, I want what’s best for the environment,” says Mr. Akin, a food vendor, wiping his hands on his apron. “But if they want us to stop using styrofoam, they need to make sure there’s something else we can use, that is cheap. Until then, I’ll stick with what works, if I still get the product to buy.”
Environmentalists had welcomed the ban, hoping it would reduce waste and carbon emissions.
However, critics argue that a tax on single-use plastics might have been a more effective approach, fostering a gradual transition while supporting the plastics value chain
As Lagos grapples with the continued use of styrofoam, the success of the ban hangs in the balance. Will the city find a way to enforce the policy and encourage the adoption of sustainable alternatives, or will styrofoam remain an indelible part of Lagos’ landscape? The coming months will be crucial in determining the fate of the city’s environmental initiatives.
