The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the ban on single-use plastics (SUPs) less than 40 microns in thickness, citing their damaging effects on the environment and public health.

Speaking during continued enforcement operations on Friday, the Corps Marshal of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI), Major Olatunbosun Cole (Rtd), said the crackdown, now in its second day, would be sustained until there is full compliance across all markets and retail outlets in the state.

“Today is day two of the enforcement. Yesterday, we were at Alakoro Market in Lagos Island. This morning, we visited Bolade Market in Oshodi and are currently at Ojuwoye Market in Mushin. Traders must ensure they sell only plastics that meet the required thickness, for the benefit of everyone,” Cole stated.

Confiscated items included lightweight nylon bags, plastic straws, disposable cutlery, cups, and plates—all of which, according to Cole, significantly contribute to environmental pollution and threaten marine life and human health when improperly disposed of.

The ban, which also includes Styrofoam products, was first announced in January 2024 by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab. Manufacturers and distributors were given an 18-month moratorium to phase out the banned materials and adopt eco-friendly alternatives. Full enforcement began on July 1, 2025.

Cole noted that the government consulted extensively with key stakeholders—including the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Restaurants and Food Services Proprietors Association of Nigeria (RFSPAN), and the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA)—to ensure a sustainable transition away from harmful plastics.

“Before the commencement of this enforcement, the state government held a series of consultations with manufacturers, distributors, and traders. They were given ample time—18 months—to exhaust existing stock and switch to environmentally friendly alternatives,” he said.

The Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources also deployed advocacy teams across various markets to raise awareness about the dangers of SUPs and encourage behavioural change.

SUPs, particularly those under 40 microns, are notorious for clogging drainage systems, exacerbating flooding, and polluting oceans and lagoons.

These plastics often end up in aquatic animals, thereby entering the food chain and posing serious risks to human health. (The Nation)