Nigeria is now the second largest contributor to global plastic pollution, releasing over 3.5 million tonnes annually, leading to alarming levels of contamination in rivers and beaches.
Wale Fatade reports for The Conversation.
In short:
- Nigeria generates 3.5 million tonnes of plastic waste yearly, second only to India.
- Studies show high microplastic contamination in Nigeria's Osun River, with 22,079 pieces per liter of water.
- Single-use plastics bans have been proposed, but enforcement remains a challenge.
Why this matters:
Plastic pollution in Nigeria endangers freshwater systems, wildlife and human health. Without effective regulation and corporate responsibility, the crisis could worsen, affecting both ecosystems and communities reliant on contaminated water sources.
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