According to the U.S.-Nigeria Trade Council USA, small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in Lagos State will bear a heavy financial hardship as a result of the government’s abrupt ban on single-use plastic containers.
This was revealed by the council’s president, Mr. Titus Olowokere, in a statement given to reporters in Lagos on Tuesday.
Olowokere made a plea to the government, asking it to carefully consider the economic effects of the prohibition.
In order to develop sustainable waste management plans and promote entrepreneurship, economic growth, and environmental sustainability, he also emphasized the importance of working with stakeholders.
Read Also: FG to Ban Single-Use Plastics at Agencies
He mentioned that while the council acknowledges the importance of environmental conservation and sustainability, the sudden ban on single-use plastics is considered potentially problematic to small businesses.
“We firmly believe that this ban will have detrimental effects on Lagos state economy and exacerbate the unemployment crisis.
“We urge the government to reconsider this decision and take into account alternative solutions that promote entrepreneurship, sustainable consumption, and waste management,
“This ban directly affects not only industry workers but also countless small-scale entrepreneurs who depend on the plastic sector for their livelihoods.
Read Also: FG moves To Stable Sugar Price
“Furthermore, from an economic standpoint, the ban imposes an enormous financial burden on businesses, particularly Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), as they are forced to find alternatives or invest in costly infrastructure to comply with the regulation.
“This additional expenditure, coupled with the already challenging business environment, will impede growth and hinder economic development, not only in Lagos but in Nigeria as a country,” Olowokere said.
Effective Waste Management as an Alternative
Speaking further, the council advised that the Lagos State government encourage and promote effective waste management as a credible alternative to the ban.
According to Olowokere, this will promote responsible consumer behavior and support the transition towards eco-friendly alternatives.
Read Also: Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance Seals Strategic Partnership With Yalo, SBC
He suggested that the state explore collaboration with industry stakeholders to foster the creation and acceptance of eco-friendly packaging alternatives, including materials that are biodegradable or compostable.
In addition, he expressed the council’s support for investing in recycling infrastructure.
“The establishment and expansion of recycling facilities will create new job opportunities and support the growth of a sustainable recycling industry in Nigeria.
“USTC advocates for collaboration between the Lagos State government, private sector entities, and civil society organizations to develop and implement waste management projects that drive entrepreneurship and job creation,” he added.
