Lagos residents have voiced concerns over the Lagos State government’s proposed ban on single-use plastics (SUPs) and sachet water, warning that it could lead to significant job losses and disrupt economic activities.
During a stakeholders’ workshop, Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, announced plans to implement the ban by January 2025. Wahab emphasized the need for sustainable guidelines to manage plastic waste, highlighting that materials like styrofoam and single-use plastics take centuries to degrade.
However, the proposal has sparked widespread anxiety among various sectors, particularly manufacturers and retailers, who fear economic instability and job losses. Many water vendors, who rely heavily on sachet water sales for their livelihoods, are particularly apprehensive.
Voices of Concern:
- Akinyemi Bolaji, a Sales Manager at Aremson Water Ltd., expressed deep concern for employment, stating, “The ban will not favor anyone, and it will make thousands of people lose their source of livelihood.” He called for better alternatives to ensure the ban doesn’t adversely affect those in the water business.
- Mrs. Vera Osiyemi, a retail water seller, highlighted the critical role of sachet water in preventing diseases like cholera, questioning the feasibility of the ban. She suggested the government should focus on creating awareness and proper disposal methods instead.
- Mrs. Afusat Ajibola warned that the ban could lead to a cholera outbreak, stating, “If the government eventually bans it, it will result in a serious cholera outbreak.” She advocated for proper waste disposal systems rather than an outright ban.
- Miss Joy Okafor raised concerns about the implications of banning sachet water without addressing the broader waste management issues, emphasizing the need for clean pipe-borne water to be available to the populace.
- Chinedu Eze, a water distributor, expressed uncertainty about the future of his business, saying, “This isn’t just about access to water; it’s about the survival of thousands of us.”
- Dr. Olufemi Adeyemi, a medical doctor, warned that banning sachet water without providing alternative sources of safe drinking water could leave many residents without affordable options. He suggested that the government invest in public water systems to alleviate the reliance on sachet water.
- Mummy Boma, a street vendor, emphasized that selling sachet water is essential for her family’s survival, stating, “Selling pure water helps me feed my children and send them to school.”
Government Response
In response to the backlash, Wahab acknowledged the concerns but reiterated the importance of environmental protection. The Lagos State Government is reportedly collaborating with private sector organizations to provide alternatives to SUPs and is supporting research into new technologies for managing plastic waste.
As the proposed ban approaches, many stakeholders remain hopeful for a balanced approach that prioritizes both environmental sustainability and economic stability.