Lagos State has kicked off its ban on certain single-use plastics, officially enforcing the rule from July 1.
The move targets plastics thinner than 40 microns, including styrofoam containers. Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab made it clear at a press briefing: “There will be no going back from July 1 on the enforcement of the ban on single-use plastics, which are less than 40 microns in Lagos State.”
Any store found selling or storing these items could be shut down, Wahab warned, adding that “offenders will be punished” under Lagos’ environmental laws. Since the announcement back in January, the government has been spreading awareness to help the public adjust.
The goal? To reduce plastic pollution and its harmful effects on health and the environment. “The ban aligns with international best practices,” environmentalist Niran Alebiosu said, noting it shows Lagos’ “commitment to achieving a cleaner and greener environment.”
Wahab clarified that the ban doesn’t cover all types of plastics, and businesses can still sell the banned ones outside Lagos. Experts have welcomed the move, calling it “a positive step towards addressing the global plastic crisis” and urging people to consider greener alternatives like biodegradable materials.
