Lagos To Ramp Up Enforcement Of Styrofoam Food Packs Ban

Eko Hot Blog reports that the Lagos State Government announced on Wednesday that it will increase enforcement of the ban on styrofoam food packs and trays across the state.

Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab stated during a meeting with the Restaurant and Food Services Proprietor Association of Nigeria (REFSPAN) that there will be no going back on the total ban on styrofoam food containers and trays, while single-use plastics will be phased out gradually.

Wahab said the government will deploy more enforcement officers to confiscate styrofoam packs from those still stocking them. He emphasized that “the lives of residents remain far more important than the economic value the association attaches to the continuous use of Styrofoam food packs and trays.”

The commissioner explained that styrofoam clogs drainage channels and the cost of clearing them is expensive. He appealed to the association to support the ban to save the environment from styrofoam’s hazards.

REFSPAN member and SPAR Supermarket GMD Mr. Haresh Keswani said the association continues to support protecting the environment but needed clarification on the ban.

The Lagos government stresses it will ramp up enforcement and advocacy to ensure residents embrace alternatives to styrofoam food containers, which will be completely banned. Other single-use plastics will also be phased out this year after deliberations with stakeholders.