Government urges action on plastic waste to protect health and waterways
The Federal Government has raised concerns about the dangers of plastic pollution to aquatic life and human health. Falmata Bukar-Kolo, Deputy Director at the Solid Waste Management and Technology Division, highlighted the risks during a stakeholders’ workshop in Abuja. She warned that microplastics are already entering the food chain through fish consumption and called for urgent improvements in waste management. The ministry, in partnership with PROTEGO, is working to develop a policy to address marine litter in Nigeria.
What we know
- Falmata Bukar-Kolo emphasized that plastics are non-biodegradable and persist in the environment, worsening pollution in waterways and coastal areas.
- Improper disposal of plastics in inland communities leads to marine litter as waste is washed into rivers and the sea.
- The policy brief recommends harmonising agency mandates and implementing Extended Producer Responsibility to hold manufacturers accountable for plastic packaging.
- Clem Ugorji, Regional Coordinator of PROTEGO, noted that plastic pollution also poses economic and reputational risks for coastal communities.
- The Federal Ministry of Environment is pushing for coordinated action, better enforcement of regulations, and sustainable financing to tackle the crisis.
