Nigeria Needs Actions on Several Fronts to Fight Plastic Pollution

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Plastic pollution has emerged as a serious environmental and health problem in African countries, especially in Nigeria. The country may require actions on several fronts to combat exponentially rising plastic pollution. The issue will likely be a key theme at the United Nations Environment Assembly to be held shortly in Nairobi- the capital city of Kenya.

The foremost step will be to address poor waste management practices currently followed in the country.

Also, the government should take necessary action to stop businesses from offering free single-use plastic bags, which have been identified as a major source of pollution. Levying a high fee on plastic bags at checkouts would encourage people to reuse bags or even make them shift to alternative options such as paper bags.

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The government must launch a campaign at the earliest to crack down on plastic bags and bottles. The campaign must also focus on the environmental dangers of discarding used water sachets and bottles. In addition, it must ensure access to clean drinkable water. These actions must be supported by the passage of the long awaited “plastic pollution bill”.

As per rough estimates, Nigeria generates approximately 2,250 tonnes of plastic waste every day.