The Imo State House of Assembly has urged the state government to ban the use of styrofoam, commonly used by food vendors for takeaway packaging, citing environmental and health concerns.

The motion, sponsored by Minority Leader Hon. Princewill Amuchie and co-sponsored by seven other lawmakers, highlights the potential dangers of styrofoam, including cancer risks and environmental pollution.

During deliberations, lawmakers emphasized the urgency of government intervention to protect public health and the ecosystem. Hon. Amuchie, representing Aboh-Mbaise State Constituency, noted that while styrofoam serves as insulation in buildings, its widespread use in food packaging poses significant risks.

The Assembly is calling for immediate regulatory action to phase out styrofoam usage and promote safer alternatives.

Amuchie said, “The motion requires urgent attention both from the Government and the Public, including Private organizations, as the material is being used, with people not aware of its hazardous effects to human life.

According to him, “Waste pollution is a huge problem in Nigeria and across the globe, with serious impacts on the environment, including blocking drainages.”

He said, “The continuous production of Styrofoam releases toxic chemicals that contaminate our air, water and soil which brings some incurable diseases like cancer, neurological damage and reproductive issues.”

Amuchie further said a taskforce should be set up to clamp down on the evil product, as the hazardous effects of Styrofoam materials have prompted the Lagos State Government to ban its production and usage, while some countries like United States of America, China, Taiwan, Rwanda etc have taken bold steps in banning the material.

The Motion which was seconded by Hon Barrister Chisom Ojukwu, Member Representing Nkwerre State Constituency, was co-sponsored by the 10 lawmakers. (The Nation)