The Abia State Ministry of Environment has announced the ban on the use of Styrofoam foils, commonly known as ‘Take Away’, as food containers in the state.
The ban, issued in a statement by the Commissioner for Environment, Philemon Ogbonna, aims to address concerns about the product’s impact on public health.
Commissioner Ogbonna highlighted that similar bans had been implemented in other states, including Lagos, and urged the public to cease using the foils immediately.
He emphasized the need for thorough investigations into the potential dangers posed by the product before any further decisions are made.
During the January 2024 Clean Up exercise in Umuahia, the state capital, authorities apprehended and penalized individuals found violating the ban.
Offenders engaged in trading or loitering during the designated environmental sanitation hours faced sanctions in line with the government’s directives.
Despite these enforcement actions, the clean-up exercise achieved significant compliance, with many residents participating by clearing gutters, and the state government deploying trucks to remove generated waste.
The ban on Styrofoam foils reflects the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and public health, urging residents to support these efforts for a cleaner and healthier environment.
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