NESREA Defends Plastic Waste Regulations Amid Concerns

The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) defended its plastic waste control regulations during a press conference in Abuja, represented by its Director General, Prof. Innoc Barikor, and Director of Enforcement, Dr.

Christoph Beka. The agency clarified that the regulations, set to be implemented by 2026, do not impose a blanket ban on single-use plastics but specifically restrict plastic bags under 80 microns.

The regulations include a phased implementation timeline, with requirements for recycled PET content commencing in 2028, allowing manufacturers time to adjust and invest in compliance measures. NESREA dismissed concerns from the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria regarding job threats and increased import dependence, arguing that the regulations would stimulate local recycling industries and create employment opportunities.

The agency maintained that suspending the regulations would create uncertainty and delay efforts to address the growing challenges of plastic pollution in Nigeria, reiterating its commitment to engage with manufacturers and stakeholders for a smooth implementation.