Shaping a Sustainable Future for Nigeria in the Fight Against Plastic Pollution

By Ibrahim Jimoh

In the 1950s, material manufacturing underwent a transformative change: global plastic production skyrocketed by over 230 times. This explosive growth is largely attributed to plastics’ lightweight and durability, high moldability, impermeability to liquids, and resistance to degradation from physical and chemical processes. Interestingly, their low cost makes them an economically attractive choice over other materials like glass, metal, wood, and natural fibres across a vast array of applications in modern society. For example, we use them to preserve food, insulate buildings, increase the fuel efficiency of vehicles, and create flexible and waterproof clothing. Plastics also play a crucial role in the healthcare industry, used in the manufacture of sterile packaging, disposable syringes, intravenous bags, and medical devices that require high levels of sanitation. Conversely, plastics are so resistant to degradation that they can persist in the environment for decades or even centuries. Their use results in enormous production-related carbon emissions and footprints, voluminous waste, increasing pollution and harm to marine, wildlife and ecosystems due to environmental leakage and considerable socio-economic costs.

Since Nigeria, especially Lagos, banned single-use plastics, I have observed a decrease in the use of these damaging products to the environment. I had intentionally monitored how effective this ban would pan out, and it’s been a success to my observation, at least to some extent. From 2019 to the present, Nigeria’s plastic waste generation has surged by approximately 138.4% from 2.5 million tonnes to 5.96 million tonnes annually, while Lagos has experienced an even sharper increase of about 143.5% in daily plastic waste production, rising from 924 tonnes to 2,250 tonnes. For better context, if you pick up one kilogram of plastic waste every second, it would take over 189 years to clean up 5.96 million tonnes of plastic waste. This alarming data underlines the pressing need for substantial enhancements in our waste management systems and policy frameworks.

As we navigate the repercussions of this growth, especially in Nigeria where plastic waste has reached critical levels, it becomes imperative to explore sustainable management strategies that go beyond mere bans. This article delves into innovative approaches and policy reforms essential for mitigating the environmental impact of plastics, aligning with global efforts to safeguard our planet.

Back in 2010, during a particularly heavy rainfall in Lagos, my family’s home suffered from severe flooding. I was at university at the time and received a frantic call: my books and other belongings were being moved to a neighbour’s apartment on the upper floor to escape the rising waters. Of course, my bookshelf was saved but we lost a considerable amount of goods in the house as it got flooded. My siblings and parents were driven out of the room and forced to seek shelter in family and friends’ residences for days. Partly, to this flooding is the blockage of the drainage systems with plastics and waste obstructing the easy flow of water. This is just one of the terrible consequences of improper disposal of waste and plastics.

Reflecting on this personal episode helps me appreciate the progress we’ve made with the plastic ban, but also reminds me that we’ve still got a long way to go. Despite the success in reducing plastic usage, the battle against waste and its devastating effects like flooding continues. We need a comprehensive strategy that not only tackles waste at its source but also involves everyone—from government bodies to local communities—in the solution.

Recently, I had a conversation with some traders and businesses across Lagos and the pressing concern, while they acknowledged the harmful effects of single-use plastic, has been: “What are the viable alternatives, and how economically sustainable are they for our businesses?”
There’s an ongoing debate about whether alternative measures, like taxation, might better address plastic pollution. Observing the struggles faced by countries like Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda with plastic bans—issues like black markets and smuggling—it becomes clear that comprehensive strategies are necessary. Instead of strict bans, which could lead to higher costs and illegal activities, a tax on single-use plastics might be a more effective strategy.

Countries such as Ireland, Belgium, Spain, the UK, and Germany have seen success with plastic taxes, reducing usage and encouraging sustainable alternatives. The funds from these taxes are often used to support environmental projects and education, promoting a culture of responsibility and stewardship.

In Nigeria, innovative efforts like Switch Recycling, a part of the Polysmart Group, showcase successful private sector involvement in tackling the plastic waste crisis. Using advanced technology and best practices, Switch Recycling has significantly collected 2868.27 tonnes of plastic across 9 states in Nigeria including Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Kano, Kwara, Edo, Delta, Sokoto Katsina; cut CO2 emissions by 17209.64 tonnes and boosted plastic recycling nationwide.
RecyclePoints, for instance, uses a points system that can be exchanged for goods, thus economically motivating communities to engage in recycling activities. Despite these efforts, RecyclePoints reports collecting only a fraction of Lagos’s daily waste production, indicating a significant gap in reaching wider communities.

Moreover, the role of advanced recycling facilities like Chanja Datti Co. Ltd., which focuses on transforming waste plastics into reusable formats, is crucial. Chanja Datti’s efforts have resulted in substantial reductions in waste plastics, yet they still face challenges in terms of scaling up operations and coping with the influx of waste materials. The impact of these initiatives, while significant, highlights the existing gaps in Nigeria’s recycling infrastructure and public participation.

Drawing from the OECD’s “Global Plastics Outlook,” which delineates the global challenges and offers pragmatic solutions, I propose a multifaceted approach tailored to our unique context in Nigeria:

1. Development of Recycled Plastics Markets:
o The adoption of extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes would significantly influence the supply chain of recycled plastics by holding producers accountable for the lifecycle of their products. This initiative would not only mitigate waste but also cultivate a market for recycled materials.
o Setting recycled content targets is equally crucial. These targets would stimulate demand for recycled plastics, promoting economic viability and environmental sustainability.
2. Innovation in Recycling Technologies:
o Strategic investments in technologies that reduce reliance on primary plastics, extend product lifespans, and enhance recycling processes are essential. The OECD report underscores the potential of environmental technologies in plastics, suggesting a threefold increase in patented innovations. Nigeria must harness this innovative potential to curb our plastic waste predicament.
3. Strengthening Public Policy:
o Our regulatory and economic frameworks require significant reinforcement. We should consider broader and more effective anti-littering legislations that encompass more than just plastic bags, alongside introducing incentives such as landfill taxes. These policies would encourage recycling and prudent consumption of plastics.
4. Global Cooperation for Circular Plastic Management:
o In the spirit of international solidarity and effectiveness, aligning our national efforts with global strategies to enhance the circularity of plastics is imperative. Such cooperation would allow Nigeria to adopt best practices and integrate into global value chains that are both sustainable and circular.

As we approach Earth Day 2024, with its compelling theme of ‘Planet vs Plastic,’ our collective resolve must be stronger than ever. This global observance not only raises awareness but also galvanizes action against the plastic pollution crisis that threatens our ecosystems and health. In Nigeria, embracing the comprehensive strategies outlined—ranging from innovative recycling technologies to robust public policies—can significantly align our national efforts with the global fight against plastics. This Earth Day, let us renew our commitment to not just managing, but triumphing over plastic pollution, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations. By supporting these initiatives, every Nigerian can contribute to a broader, global effort, demonstrating that our commitment to a plastic-free environment is both a local and an international cause.

Jimoh, Head, ESG at Marble Advisory Limited, sent this piece from Abuja