Analysis: Why Lagos ban on Styrofoam is a step in the right direction

In a recent and unexpected move, the Lagos state government took a decisive step towards environmental sustainability by banning the use of polystyrene (Styrofoam) and other single-use plastics.

However, this bold initiative has sparked a spectrum of reactions, revealing a divide between those applauding the move and those expressing concerns.

Environmental Impact of Styrofoams

Styrofoams are ubiquitous in Nigerian daily life, from food packages ‘takeaway’ to water containers.

Of course, you are Nigerian. What’s an ‘owambe’ without takeaway? What’s a restaurant without takeaway? Very affordable, surely, but the cost it incurs can be expensive.

From clogging drainages to polluting beaches and occupying significant space in landfills, the non-degradable nature of Styrofoams poses severe threat.

Healtheplanet highlights that annually, over 5 billion pounds of styrofoam find their way into landfills and waterways. Also, the global production of styrofoam exceeds 14 million tons yearly. It also notes that recycling accounts for less than 1% of styrofoam, and its decomposition takes a staggering 500 years.

Sea animals suffer as they consume these materials, mistaking them for food or nesting materials, leading to pollution and ecological imbalance.

The association of Styrofoam with leukemia and lymphoma cancer adds another layer to the urgency of addressing this environmental crisis.

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Arguments in Favor of the Ban

Environmentalists, such as Temilade Salami, argue that a phased approach isn’t feasible given the emergency-like situation. Via her social media handle, @theglobaltemi, she emphasizes that alternatives existed before Styrofoams, and the ban is a necessary step to combat environmental degradation.

In her words “We were using something before styrofoams. And no, the government does not need to provide alternatives before this particular ban. Flood doesn’t come in phases. And some decisions like banning styrofoams should not come in phases. So kudos to the Ministry of Environment!”

Genevieve Aningo adds that stringent policies must accompany the ban to hold offenders accountable, suggesting the involvement of customs officers at checkpoints to ensure compliance.

Opposition and Concerns

On the flip side, business leader, Akin Olaoye express concerns about the abrupt nature of the ban. He highlights the impact on job opportunities and local manufacturing, urging for smart waste management programs instead of an outright ban.

He said, “One day you are manufacturing styrofoams, creating job opportunities satisfying local demands, the next morning @tokunbo_wahab wakes up and says your legal entity is now manufacturing banned products! This is the same country shouting that we don’t manufacture locally! A smart government implements effective waste management programs, not ban the products!”

Lack of Alternatives and Policy Implementation

Questions arise regarding the absence of clear policies and alternatives following the ban. Genevieve Aningo urges the government to communicate updates effectively, ensuring that manufacturers transition to eco-friendly materials for packaging.

Global Context

Lagos joins the ranks of Canada, the UK, Jamaica, Germany, Italy, and France, who have already banned Styrofoam. Notably, the United States is in a phase-out process.

This move also made Nigeria join the league of African countries like Zimbabwe which placed a ban on the use of styrofoams since 2017.

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Support for the Ban at the Federal Level and adoption by Abia state 

The federal government lauded the efforts of the Lagos state government, signaling a potential adoption of the ban at the federal level.

This support acknowledges the urgency of addressing environmental concerns and aligning with the global movement against Styrofoam.

The Abia state government mirroring Lagos, has implemented a styrofoam ban, encountering similar arguments. Nevertheless, it can be considered a step in the right direction.

As Lagos and Abia find themselves in uncharted territory with the recent ban on Styrofoams, this initiative emerges as a unifying force for environmental advocates.

The divergent perspectives, whether endorsing immediate action or favoring a more measured approach, vividly highlight the intricate nature of decisions in environmental policy.

With the global spotlight on them, Lagos takes center stage in a movement against Styrofoam pollution, positioning itself as a pioneer striving to forge a sustainable future.

This divisive ban, however, serves as a testament to a shared commitment to prioritize planetary health over convenience, compelling us to reflect on whether the sacrifices made today hold the key to a cleaner and healthier tomorrow.

While valid arguments surround the ban, the urgency of the situation presents an Earth in crisis, evoking parallels to Michael Jackson’s poignant “Earth Song.”

In light of this, it becomes imperative for other states to consider adopting similar policies. The call for a collective effort resonates, emphasizing the need for widespread environmental consciousness and action for the greater good.