In a decisive move to enforce the ban on Styrofoam and single-use plastics (SUPs), the Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), popularly known as KAI, has confiscated N2.5 million worth of Styrofoam food packs and other prohibited plastics across key markets and shopping malls in Lagos over the past week.
Corps Marshal, Major Olaniyi Olatunbosun, stated in a Tuesday press release that intelligence reports revealed traders in markets and malls flouting state regulations. “This prompted enforcement operations in Agege, Oshodi, Idunmota, Mushin, Victoria Island, and Lekki markets, resulting in the seizure of banned products worth N2.5 million,” he said.
Highlighting the dangers of single-use plastics, Major Olatunbosun noted that the ban, which came into effect on July 1, is critical for protecting the environment. He warned that plastic waste poses a significant threat to Lagos’ coastal environment and public health. Items included in the ban extend beyond Styrofoam to plastic straws, plastic cutlery, and single-use carrier bags or nylons below 40 microns, addressing misinformation being circulated about the scope of the ban.
The Corps Marshal emphasized full compliance with the eradication of Styrofoam food containers and polystyrene cups, including disposable cups with no recycling value due to their non-biodegradable nature. Traders were warned against selling banned items on road setbacks, medians, verges, and gutter slabs, as these activities violate state environmental laws.
In addition to the crackdown, Major Olatunbosun urged Lagosians to use pedestrian bridges correctly and avoid open urination, defecation, and indiscriminate refuse dumping, which obstructs drains and hampers stormwater flow, contributing to flooding hazards.
📌 Reported by: Stone Reporters News
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