7 Things You Need to Know About Proposed Ban on Single-Use Plastics and Manufacturers’ Concerns

By Azeez Disu

The proposed nationwide ban on single-use plastics by the government would come into full implementation by January 2025. Most of the materials to be banned include straws, cutlery, plastic bottles, and small water sachets due to their effect on the environment.

However, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has raised concerns that the proposed ban will hurt some manufacturer’s business activities who depend on the products. Some of the concerns are highlighted below:

1). Job Loss

MAN has disclosed that the implementation of a single-use plastics ban, also known as disposable plastics, would result in job losses within industries heavily dependent on the production and distribution of the products.

“The implementation of a single-use plastics ban is likely to result in job losses within industries heavily reliant on the production and distribution of these products. Workers employed in the manufacturing, packaging, and sales of single-use plastics face the risk of unemployment as companies adapt to the new regulatory landscape. Factories unable to transition to alternative materials or absorb the associated costs may be forced to cease operations, leading to job losses and economic disruptions in affected regions.,” it disclosed.

2). Increased Costs and Logistical Challenges

MAN said manufacturers would be compelled to reconfigure their production processes to align with the new regulatory landscape, which will be cost-intensive. “This transition will involve substantial investments in research and development to identify and adopt suitable alternative materials. Acquiring new machinery and equipment, as well as modifying existing infrastructure, will be essential to accommodate the production of these alternative products.

“Moreover, the shift towards sustainable materials will disrupt established supply chains. Companies will need to establish new partnerships with suppliers of alternative raw materials, potentially leading to increased costs and logistical challenges.”

3). Implications on Other Industries

MAN explained that the ban will have ripple effects on other industries, stating that the logistics and transportation sectors may face challenges in handling and transporting alternative packaging materials.

It added that “The waste management industry will experience changes in waste composition and recycling processes.

“Additionally, the retail sector will need to modify product offerings and packaging to comply with the ban.”

4). Time-Consuming & Financial Implications

It explained that businesses will incur significant costs for new technology, employee training, and potentially higher-priced raw materials. Also, redesigning products to comply with the new regulations is a time-consuming and costly endeavour.

5). Need for Government-Stakeholders Engagement

The association is advocating for adequate government-stakeholder engagement and collaborative efforts on the journey to the eventual elimination of single-use plastics.

It added that “There is clearly the need for government support and a phased implementation to allow businesses sufficient time to adapt and mitigate disruptions.”

6). Incentive

It also advocates that “Adequate incentive should be given to offset the costs of adopting alternative materials, including tax breaks to encourage investment in sustainable technologies, and comprehensive training programs to equip the workforce with the necessary skills.”

7). Fund to Support R&D

MAN is calling for funding to support its members’ Research and Development (R&D).

“We propose the establishment of a dedicated fund to support Research and Development into sustainable packaging solutions. This would foster innovation and create new business opportunities within the manufacturing sector,” it pointed out.

 

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