Rhodes-Vivour Challenges Lagos State Plastic Ban, Advocates Collaborative Approach

• Labour Party’s Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour urges Lagos State government to engage stakeholders for a comprehensive strategy on plastic pollution, questioning the recent ban
• Rhodes-Vivour proposes gradual transition, public awareness campaigns, and incentives for businesses to adopt eco-friendly alternatives, emphasizing stakeholder collaboration in decision-making

Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party’s gubernatorial candidate in Lagos State, has called on the state government to engage stakeholders in crafting a comprehensive and sustainable strategy to address plastic pollution. His plea comes in response to the recent ban imposed by the state government on single-use plastics and styrofoam.

Rhodes-Vivour expressed concerns over the potential economic implications of the ban, particularly for manufacturers, retailers, and wholesalers invested in these products. In his statement titled “Plastic Ban: Hasty Impulsive Decisions Are No Substitute For Critical Policy-Making,” he urged the state government to prioritize stakeholder collaboration to tackle environmental concerns effectively.

Rather than an immediate ban, Rhodes-Vivour proposed launching extensive public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the environmental impact of single-use plastics. He emphasized the need for responsible consumption and disposal habits among the populace.

Advocating for a gradual transition, Rhodes-Vivour suggested that the state government provide incentives and support for businesses to shift towards environmentally friendly alternatives like biodegradable materials and reusable packaging.

He urged the government to invest in robust recycling infrastructure to address plastic waste management for proper collection and disposal. Furthermore, Rhodes-Vivour proposed pricing plastic bottles (N5-N10 per bottle) to incentivize citizens for proper disposal and recycling efforts.

In line with sustainable practices, he called for implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies, holding producers accountable for the entire life cycle of their products. Rhodes-Vivour stressed the importance of involving manufacturers, retailers, environmental experts, and community representatives in developing a holistic and inclusive strategy to combat plastic pollution.