Reps propose green tax on plastic manufacturers to curb pollution
The House of Representatives ad-hoc committee on the ban of single-use plastics in Nigeria has proposed the introduction of a green tax on manufacturers of polypropylene — a common plastic used in packaging, disposable cups, woven bags, and household items.
Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja at the committee’s inaugural meeting, Terseer Ugbor, chairman of the panel, said the house would also consider legislation to regulate polypropylene production and promote recycling as part of a national strategy to curb pollution and protect public health.
“Polypropylene’s environmental impact is substantial and disturbing,” Ugbor said. “During the production process, it releases toxic chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene, putting workers and nearby communities at risk.
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“It is responsible for enormous carbon emissions and relies heavily on fossil fuels, contributing to resource depletion. As waste, polypropylene isn’t biodegradable, lingering in landfills for up to 500 years and polluting our oceans and harming marine life in the process.
“Nigeria cannot afford to continue on this path of environmental neglect. Our industries must take responsibility for the ecological footprints they leave behind.”
Ugbor said the committee would work with the Federal Ministry of Environment and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to develop a policy framework for the proposed green tax and integrate polypropylene recycling into the national waste management programme.
“This committee will work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that sustainable, environmentally responsible solutions are not just recommended but implemented,” he said.
The lawmaker added that the committee will hold a public hearing involving manufacturers, recyclers, and environmental experts to ensure that any proposed regulation is fair and effective.
“This is not about taxation. It is about responsibility, sustainability, and protecting the future of our environment and our people,” Ugbor said.
Last year, the House of Representatives urged the federal government to ban the production, importation, distribution, and use of styrofoam and single-use plastics nationwide.
Similarly, the Lagos State government announced a ban on the use and distribution of styrofoam and other single-use plastics within the state.
