Shoppers at various Shoprite outlets across Lagos are gradually adapting to the retail giant’s decision to stop providing nylon bags to customers, in accordance with the Lagos State Government’s recent ban on single-use plastics. This policy, which took effect on January 1, is part of efforts to reduce plastic waste and promote environmental sustainability in the region.
The decision to cease the use of nylon bags aligns with a broader initiative by the Lagos State Government, which aims to significantly reduce plastic waste by banning single-use plastics. By eliminating items like plastic straws, plastic cutlery, and Styrofoam packaging, the government hopes to combat the rising environmental issues linked to plastic pollution.
The Ikeja outlet of Shoprite, located within the Ikeja City Mall, provides responses responses from shoppers. Several customers were seen carrying their items with bare hands, walking from the store to their vehicles parked in the lot.
Other shoppers who were not prepared to purchase bags made use of the store’s trolleys, transporting their goods directly to their cars without the use of nylon bags. This trend indicates that many customers are starting to adjust to the new policy, even as they seek alternatives to carry their purchases.
A public notice displayed at the Shoprite store confirmed the policy change and outlined the full range of items that would no longer be provided. The notice read: “In support of the Lagos State Government’s ban on single-use plastics, we will no longer provide the following items in our store: plastic straws, nylon bags, plastic cutleries, Styrofoam packs. Let’s reduce plastic waste and protect our environment.”
The notice also encouraged customers to bring their own reusable bags when shopping, urging them to participate in the city’s efforts to cut down on plastic waste. “You can help by bringing your reusable bags,” it emphasized.
For customers who do not have their own bags, Shoprite offers an alternative. The Ikeja outlet provides a Bagco super sack for purchase, ensuring that shoppers still have a way to carry their goods without relying on single-use plastic.
Despite the availability of the super sack, the store’s message to customers remains clear: “Please, remember to bring your reusable bags.” This statement serves as a reminder that the responsibility to reduce plastic waste lies not only with the retailer but also with the consumer.
The ban on single-use plastics in Lagos is part of a larger strategy by the state government, which has been rolling out measures to curb plastic pollution. In 2024, the government had already banned the use of Styrofoam in all public institutions and across the metropolis, as part of a growing effort to reduce environmental damage caused by plastic waste.
Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources in Lagos, confirmed that the full ban on single-use plastics, including items like sachet water and plastic packaging, would officially take effect in January 2025. Speaking at a stakeholders’ workshop in early 2024, Wahab explained that the ban is a vital step toward ensuring the sustainable management of plastic waste in Lagos.
“The ban set to commence in January 2025 is part of our ongoing efforts to put in place policy guidelines for the responsible use of plastics and to create a healthier, safer environment for all residents of Lagos,” Wahab said during the workshop.
