Reps panel proposes green tax on polypropylene manufacturers

From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja

The House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee on Preparedness for Single-Use Plastics Ban in Nigeria has proposed a Green Tax on manufacturers  of polypropylene, one of the materials used for the production of plastics. 

According to the panel, the proposal is aimed at  addressing  Nigeria  plastic waste crisis, as well as ensuring that industries bear responsibility for the environmental costs of their production activities.

The chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee,
Terseer Ugbor, said the parliament would also consider legislation to regulate polypropylene production and promote recycling as part of strategy to mitigate pollution and safeguard public health.

Ugbor, who described plastic pollution as a growing menace, warned that  unchecked rise in polypropylene-based products has placed immense pressure on the country’s already strained waste management systems.

He added that the panel would interface
with the Federal Ministry of Environment and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to develop policy frameworks for the proposed green tax, as well as  integrate polypropylene recycling into the national waste management program.

According to him, “Polypropylene’s environmental impact is substantial and disturbing. During the production process, it releases toxic chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene, putting workers and nearby communities at risk. It’s responsible for enormous carbon emissions and relies heavily on fossil fuels, contributing to resource depletion. As waste, polypropylene isn’t biodegradable, lingering in landfills for up to 500 years and polluting our oceans and harming marine life in the process.”

“Nigeria cannot afford to continue on this path of environmental neglect. Our industries must take responsibility for the ecological footprints they leave behind. This committee will work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that sustainable, environmentally responsible solutions are not just recommended but implemented. ”

Furthermore, Ugbor noted that  committee would also hold public hearings with manufacturers, recyclers, and environmental experts to ensure that any proposed levy or regulation is both effective and equitable.

“This is not about taxation. It is about responsibility, sustainability, and protecting the future of our environment and our people, ” he stated.