According to a recent World Economic Forum (WEF) analysis, 98% of single-use plastics come from fossil fuels. This is shocking. The main ingredients used to make these polymers are petrochemicals that are taken from Natural Gas and oil, such as propylene and ethylene. Due to its reliance on fossil fuels, the plastics industry contributes significantly to global Greenhouse gas emissions; the Manufacturing of plastic alone uses 12% of the world’s oil. About 390 million tonnes of plastic were manufactured worldwide in 2021, with single-use plastics making up a sizable amount of that total.
These plastics, which are usually found in Packaging and throwaway goods, pollute the environment extensively and remain there for decades. Water sources, food chains, and ecosystems have all been contaminated by Microplastics derived from broken-down plastics. As the demand for Renewable Energy increases and the use of oil for energy decreases, Fossil Fuel firms are rapidly shifting their focus to the manufacturing of plastics. This trend is expected to continue, and by the middle of the century, plastics may overtake all other sources of demand for fossil fuels. There is optimism despite the prevalence of plastics made from fossil fuels because to advancements in bioplastics and plant-based technologies.
Nigeria is making progress against plastic pollution.
For instance, biodegradable polymers are being developed by businesses using agricultural byproducts like potato proteins and rapeseed, which break down entirely in a matter of weeks when left to their own devices. By implementing more stringent laws to phase out single-use plastics and encourage recyclable alternatives, investing in biodegradable materials and increasing production to make them more affordable, reducing reliance on single-use products, and assisting businesses that embrace sustainable practices, governments, businesses, and consumers can all help address this issue. Due to insufficient garbage collection systems and a lack of Recycling infrastructure, Nigeria produces over 2.5 million tonnes of Plastic Waste yearly, of which over 70% end up in landfills or waterways.
About 50–60 million water sachets are disposed of every day in Lagos alone, underscoring the extent of reliance on single-use plastics. With the help of programs like the National Plastic Action Roadmap, which incorporates unofficial waste collectors into official systems, Nigeria is making progress against plastic pollution. Cooperatives and recycling centres are part of this endeavour, which guarantees improved working conditions and lessens environmental harm. In keeping with laws already in place in more than 34 African countries, Lagos State is also enacting a ban on single-use plastics, including straws and bottles.
Residents can directly address the situation by organising local clean-ups.
Furthermore, these actions represent a step in the right direction towards sustainability, notwithstanding enforcement problems. Successful switches to sustainable materials give people optimism on a global scale. In nations like Rwanda, for instance, plastics are almost completely prohibited thanks to stringent laws and enforcement, as well as public awareness initiatives. Nigeria can follow these as a model. In Nigeria, populations who are more susceptible are disproportionately affected by plastic pollution. Informal rubbish pickers frequently handle hazardous products in dangerous settings for little pay. By integrating these workers into official systems, recycling rates nationwide rise in addition to improving their standard of living.
Making the switch from plastics derived from fossil fuels to alternatives can boost the Economy by generating jobs in Waste Management and the development of biodegradable materials. Residents can directly address the situation by organising local cleanups, like those led by environmental NGOs, and advocating for stricter laws. Campaigns that support appropriate waste segregation and reusable products also promote sustainable practices. By involving young people on digital platforms, long-term change is fuelled and future leaders become more environmentally conscientious.
Related Article: Nigeria Targets Plastic Pollution Elimination
All parties involved—the public and business sectors as well as civil society—must contribute to the fight against plastic pollution. For success to be sustained, open dialogue about financing, enforcing regulations, and providing equitable benefits is essential. Such cooperation is emphasised in Nigeria’s plastic strategy, which aims to make the country pollution-free by 2040. Nigeria’s experience serves as a reminder of the value of integrating policy reform with grassroots initiatives. Promoting Sustainability can help the nation turn its plastic catastrophe into a chance for social justice and innovation.