Afrigather The Home of Representatives has urged the federal authorities to ban the manufacturing, importation, distribution, and use of styrofoam and single-use plastics all through Nigeria.
The decision was sequel to the adoption of a movement by Rep. Muktar Shagaya (APC-Kwara) at plenary on Wednesday.
Earlier, Mr Shagaya mentioned that the provisions of Part 20 of the Structure place a duty on the federal authorities to guard and enhance the atmosphere for current and future generations and make sure the well being and well-being of its residents.
He mentioned that the rising use of styrofoam and single-use plastics in Nigeria poses important environmental and public well being dangers, which embrace air pollution of waterways, soil, and air high quality.
The lawmaker mentioned that chemical substances present in styrofoam are linked to well being points similar to most cancers, imaginative and prescient and listening to loss, impaired reminiscence and focus, and nervous system results.
“Conscious that styrofoam is prohibited in Taiwan, Rwanda, England, and plenty of different European nations, along with some cities and states in america. At the moment, the product is unlawful in Lagos and Abia states.
“Additionally conscious that options to styrofoam and single-use plastics, similar to biodegradable supplies, reusable containers, and recyclable packaging, can scale back environmental impression and public well being dangers.
“I’m involved that the rising use of styrofoam and single-use plastics in Nigeria not solely results in elevated plastic waste and environmental air pollution but in addition poses a major well being threat,” he mentioned.
Mr Shagaya mentioned that there’s a want to handle the environmental and public well being crises posed by styrofoam and single-use plastics to safeguard the way forward for Nigeria’s pure sources, ecosystems, well being, and the well-being of its residents.
The Home, nevertheless, urged the federal authorities to implement a phased strategy to the ban by offering adequate time for companies and industries to transition to different eco-friendly supplies and practices.
The lawmakers urged the Federal Competitors and Shopper Safety Fee (FCCPC) and different related companies to observe the standard of packaging of meals and drinks, notably in fast-moving client items (FMCGs).
The inexperienced chamber mentioned there’s a want to make sure that international finest practices are adopted and all applicable laws guiding the entire course of are adhered to.
In his ruling, the deputy speaker, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, mandated the committees on healthcare providers, atmosphere, and legislative compliance to make sure compliance.
(NAN)
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