Ban styrofoam, single-use plastics Now – Stakeholders Tell Akwa Ibom State Government
By Ekemini Simon
Stakeholders from eco-conscious organizations have called on the government of Akwa Ibom State to immediately ban styrofoam and single-use plastic in Akwa Ibom State thus preventing the State from becoming a dumping ground.
Recently, States like Lagos, Oyo have banned the use of Styrofoam and single-use plastic even as the Federal House of Representatives have commenced moves for the ban.
The stakeholders who made the call last week on the occasion of the celebration of the International Day of Zero-Waste were marked by Zero Waste Ambassadors with a series of activities which included a side event on the theme “The year of Zero Waste: From Momentum to Action”.
The event which saw the gathering of stakeholders from both the demand(eco-conscious organizations) and supply side of government brainstormed and proffered solutions to issues relating to waste in Akwa Ibom State.
In their various remarks, participants noted that achieving a zero waste society requires action at all levels from all stakeholders.
They called on government of Akwa Ibom State to place the ban on styrofoam and single use plastics in the State explaining that with the recent ban on styrofoam and single-use plastic across States, Akwa Ibom State will now serve as dumping ground for other States that have placed a ban on those materials.
Earlier, while welcoming participants to the event, the Coordinator, Zero Waste Ambassadors, Comrade Faith Paulinus said that it was necessary to commemorate the International Day of Zero-Waste in order to highlight the importance of bolstering waste management as well as the need to promote sustainable consumption and production patterns hence the reason why ZeWA decided to collaborate with other organizations to commemorate the day.
Guests during the panel session led by Lucy Eyo interrogated the present investment and action of government and citizens towards the waste sector.
Mr. Ubong Matthew of Plasticultured said that although the government may be trying its best, more can be done through the strengthening of waste management laws in the State.
On his part, Alhaji Ahmed Isa observed that citizens need to be aware of concrete plans put in place by the government to address the issue of waste at all times so as to aid partnership. He pointed out that much needs to be done in the sector to guarantee sustainability.
Esther Eyakndue representing SHADEF stressed on the need for ZeWA and other organizations working within the space to step up their advocacy efforts in order to entrench a Zero Waste society.
Haruna of Clement Isong Foundation stated that citizens have a role to play before looking at the government.
He said when the people change their attitude, the laws already in place will begin to work for the people.
Haruna harped on the need for the government of Akwa Ibom State to be intentional about the waste to wealth initiative by adopting waste recycling among other solution based approaches to managing waste.
The Highlight of the event was also the launch of the #BanPublicLitteringUyo Campaign led by Plasticultured.
There was also a tweet chat to commemorate the day with Melody Itswell of ERA/FoEN as guest.
The event climaxed on Saturday with a clean up exercise at the Unity park with a Waste Audit conducted.
The breakdown of Waste Audit has 1203 sachet packs, 92 pet/plastic bottles, 72 straws, 16 spoons, 27 bottle caps.
The event was put together by Zero waste Ambassadors (ZeWA) with Plasticultured, SHADEF and Clement Isong Foundation as partners.