Lagos State gears up to enforce a ban on single use plastics (SUPs) starting January 2025, concerns have arisen among residents about the fate of sachet water, commonly known as pure water.

Addressing these concerns, the Lagos State Government has clarified that there are no plans to ban sachet water.

In a recent statement, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said, “It is important to emphasize that Lagos State has not banned sachet water and does not have plans to do so. Our focus remains on effective plastic waste management.”

This clarification comes amidst the state’s broader environmental initiative to reduce plastic pollution.

The ban on SUPs, set to commence in January 2025, targets items like plastic bags, straws, and certain food packaging materials. However, sachet water and PET bottles are currently exempt from this ban.

The government’s decision acknowledges the essential role sachet water plays in providing accessible drinking water to many Lagosians.

The state is focusing on sustainable plastic waste management strategies. This includes implementing mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for producers of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), sachets, and carrier bags of no less than 40 microns.

Residents are advised to support these initiatives by participating in recycling programs and reducing their reliance on single-use plastics where possible.

The government’s approach aims to balance environmental sustainability with the daily needs of its citizens, ensuring that while efforts to curb plastic pollution are intensified, essential commodities like sachet water remain available.

As the 2025 enforcement date approaches, the Lagos State Government plans to roll out public awareness campaigns to educate residents on the specifics of the SUP ban and the importance of sustainable waste management practices.

For more detailed information on the upcoming ban and its implications, residents can visit the official Lagos State Government website or contact the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources directly.