PRACTICE OF PLASTIC POLLUTION MANAGEMENT IN SOME SELECTED JURISDICTIONS: LESSONS FOR NIGERIA

Abstract

Plastic pollution is a significant threat to the global environment. The culprit responsible for this menace is plastic waste. The overwhelming population in the world contributes to insurmountable plastic waste generation. These wastes generated persist because of mismanagement and the mismanagement of these wastes results in negative environmental consequences. Plastic wastes dumped at landfills contaminates the soil affecting food production, they clog water drainage systems which results in flooding, they also pose problems to wildlife from ingestion and entanglement, plastic wastes pollute the marine environment affecting marine life and consequently affect humans when consumed and incineration of plastics generates noxious fumes. In addition, plastic waste when dumped can be broken down into micro plastics impacting the ecosystem negatively. Several efforts have been made internationally and at national levels to tackle this menace. The efforts made came in form of imposition of bans, implementation of strict laws and adoption of a circular economy. This article discussed the practice of plastic waste management in some selected jurisdictions. It x-rayed the strategies and legal framework employed by other jurisdictions to tackle this menace. The article analysed the practice of plastic pollution management in some selected jurisdictions and the lessons Nigeria can draw from them. This article employed the doctrinal method of research using an analytic and comparative approach. The article relied on the primary and secondary sources of information. In the course of this article, it was found that the law is a veritable tool when addressing plastic pollution. It also found that the specific law enacted by these countries helped in tackling the plastic pollution menace. The article also found that there is no legal framework on plastic pollution management in Nigeria. Finally, the article recommended that a national law be made to address plastic pollution menace in Nigeria. It also recommended that there should be a strict adoption and implementation of circular economy practices.