The Lagos State Government has clarified that its upcoming ban on Single Use Plastics (SUPs), set to be enforced from July 1, does not cover pure water sachets, PET bottles, or nylon bags thicker than 40 microns.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, issued the clarification on Tuesday in response to misleading reports circulating on social media, which claimed the ban applied to all categories of plastic products.
“The State Government’s position remains unchanged. The ban applies specifically to styrofoam food packs and all types of polystyrene (disposable) cups,” Wahab said.
He further explained that the prohibition also includes plastic straws, plastic cutlery, and all single-use carrier bags and nylon materials with less than 40-micron thickness.
To demonstrate its commitment, he said the state has launched a Plastic Waste Management Fund, a joint initiative between the government, producers, and Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs). The fund, to be financed by contributions from manufacturers and major importers, will support efforts to tackle plastic waste in Lagos.
Wahab reaffirmed the government’s readiness to begin full enforcement of the ban on July 1, following the expiration of an 18-month moratorium announced in January 2024.
