Nigeria is stepping up its fight against plastic pollution with new regulations set to hold companies accountable for the plastic waste they produce. Developed with support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), these laws introduce extended producer responsibility (EPR), making companies fund recycling, reduce plastic use, and create eco-friendly packaging solutions.

Key Points of the New Regulation:

• Who’s Responsible? Companies that produce, import, or sell plastic packaging.

• What’s Required? They must support recycling programs, create alternatives to plastic, and improve packaging designs for easier recycling.

• What’s the Goal? Reduce plastic pollution, especially in cities like Lagos, where plastic waste is a major environmental issue.

Countries like France have seen success with similar laws, raising recycling rates and reducing plastic waste. However, experts agree that EPR is only one piece of the puzzle—along with better waste management and product redesigns, it could drive meaningful change in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s goal is to collect and recycle more plastic by 2029, significantly improving its environmental footprint. But challenges remain in raising awareness and ensuring compliance.