Environmental advocate Sonia Somuvie has praised the recent decision by Lagos State government to enforce a ban on Styrofoam. As an ardent supporter of sustainable practices, Somuvie lauds this move as a crucial step towards environmental conservation and overall well-being.
In her statement, Somuvie noted the potential positive impacts of this policy, ranging from improved public health to the preservation of waterways, cities, and ecosystems both on land and in water. She emphasizes the domino effect this ban could have, not only in Lagos but across major cities and potentially throughout the country.
She expresses optimism that policies like these can effectively keep pollution in check, especially in a country where waste management systems are still evolving.
The environmentalist’s call extends beyond government initiatives, urging other states to follow Lagos State’s lead. Additionally, she calls on large enterprises, like the Chicken Republic restaurant chain notorious for its extensive use of Styrofoam, to reevaluate their packaging practices on a national scale.
Somuvie’s statement read in full, “THE BAN ON STYROFOAM in Lagos state Nigeria has given me deep joy!
“This is the first of many possible policy generation and ammendments needed to protect and conserve our environment and wellbeing, especially as it concerns plastics and plastics products.
“This single change is set to improve the health of Nigerians, our environment, water ways, cities, food production and lives (organisms) on land and water.
“While this may seem like a small adjustment, I am overjoyed by the possible ripple effect of this policy accross major cities and possibly, accross the country.
“Seeing that, our waste management system is yet to catch up with that of more civilized nations, policies like this would help keep pollution on a tight leash.
“It is my wish that other states would follow this lead and large enterprises like the chicken republic restaurant chain, would review their packaging products ( known for excessive styrofoam use) nationwide and that these policies would be duly enforced.
“I hope this serves as a guide for product and service
“providers to make more informed decisions and choose more reusable and/or sustainable packaging.
“I urge my fellow Nigerians also, to consider the use of biodegradable packaging products, reuseable shoping bags, plates, water bottles and cutlery in the place of single use plastics products.
“As we echoed last year; “WE ONLY HAVE ONE EARTH.”
Be responsible enough to preserve and protect it.”
