Nigeria unveils new guidelines to combat plastic waste crisis

NIGERIA – In a significant step toward addressing plastic pollution, the Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced the Implementation Guidelines on Collection, Diversion, Recycling, and Single-Use Plastics as part of its National Policy on Plastic Waste Management (NPPWM).

The comprehensive document, developed in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and other stakeholders, aims to reduce plastic waste generation, improve recycling efforts, and restrict single-use plastics (SUPs).

The guidelines build upon the National Policy on Plastic Waste Management launched in 2021, which recognized Nigeria’s rising per capita plastic consumption and the nation’s struggle to manage the resulting waste.

The new framework introduces actionable strategies for state and local governments to enhance waste collection, divert plastics from landfills, and improve recycling rates.

Key focus areas of the guidelines

The newly introduced guidelines focus on three main areas aimed at improving Nigeria’s plastic waste management system.

The first area, Enhanced Collection and Diversion, seeks to establish efficient waste collection systems to prevent plastics from ending up in landfills and dumpsites.

By strengthening local waste management frameworks, the government hopes to increase plastic recovery and ensure proper disposal, reducing environmental pollution.

The second focus area, Improved Recycling, aims to boost Nigeria’s recycling capacity and promote a circular economy.

The guidelines encourage investment in recycling infrastructure, better waste sorting at the source, and the integration of informal waste collectors into formal recycling programs.

These efforts are expected to increase the percentage of plastic waste that is reused or repurposed, thereby reducing dependence on virgin plastic production.

The third critical area, Restrictions on Single-Use Plastics (SUPs), introduces phased bans, consumer-facing charges, and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes.

These measures are designed to discourage the use of disposable plastics such as carrier bags and sachet packaging.

By holding manufacturers accountable for the lifecycle of their products, the government aims to shift both businesses and consumers toward more sustainable alternatives.

The guidelines align with Nigeria’s commitments under international conventions, including the Basel Convention and the UN Climate Change Framework, aiming to tackle plastic pollution at both national and global levels.

Challenges and implementation strategy

Nigeria generates approximately 1.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with less than 30% collected for recycling.

The federal government acknowledges that much of the waste ends up mismanaged, exacerbating environmental and health risks such as pollution, flooding, and respiratory diseases from open burning.

To address the challenges posed by plastic waste, the new guidelines emphasize the need to strengthen the roles of state and local governments in waste management.

By decentralizing waste collection and recycling efforts, authorities at all levels can implement localized solutions tailored to their specific needs.

This includes improving infrastructure, enforcing waste disposal regulations, and increasing public awareness about responsible plastic use and disposal.

A key component of the strategy is the phased ban on harmful single-use plastics (SUPs), such as plastic carrier bags and sachet water packaging.

These items, which contribute significantly to environmental pollution, will be gradually restricted to allow businesses and consumers time to transition to sustainable alternatives.

The guidelines outline clear timelines and regulatory measures to ensure an effective and fair implementation process.

Additionally, the introduction of a deposit refund system (DRS) for beverage containers aims to encourage recycling by offering consumers financial incentives to return used plastic bottles and cans.

By creating a structured collection and redemption process, the government seeks to reduce plastic litter while increasing recycling rates.

This system has proven successful in several countries and is expected to significantly reduce Nigeria’s plastic waste footprint.

To further support sustainable practices, the guidelines also propose incentives for businesses to adopt eco-friendly alternatives.

Companies that invest in biodegradable packaging, reusable materials, or innovative recycling initiatives may receive financial benefits, tax breaks, or other forms of government support.

This approach is designed to foster corporate responsibility and accelerate the transition toward a greener economy.

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