The Federal Government has been asked by the House of Representatives to place a ban on the use of styrofoam across the country.

The lower chamber made the resolution on Wednesday following a motion moved by Ibrahim Shagaya.

It would be recalled that the Lagos State government recently banned the use of styrofoam material in the state.

In the motion, Shagaya said the use of styrofoam and single-use plastics in Nigeria poses significant environmental and public health risks, including pollution of waterways, soil, and air quality.

He added that “the chemical found in styrofoam is linked to health issues, such as cancer, vision and hearing loss, impaired memory and concentration, and nervous system effects.”

The House, therefore, resolved to urge the Federal Government to ban the production, importation, distribution, and use of styrofoam and single-use plastics throughout Nigeria.

In addition, the House asked the Federal Government to implement a phased approach to the ban by providing sufficient time for businesses and industries to transition to alternative eco-friendly materials and practices.