As of January 2025, ShopRite supermarkets across Lagos have implemented a significant change in their shopping practices, discontinuing the use of nylon bags in response to the Lagos State Government’s ban on single-use plastics. Customers are now offered reusable shopping bags for N500 each or encouraged to bring their own bags from home.
This shift comes as part of the full enforcement of the single-use plastic ban, which was announced by the Lagos State Government in October 2024. While other supermarkets like Ebeano and Spar were still offering nylon bags as of early January, ShopRite has already aligned with the new regulations, in a bid to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable practices.
The ban, aimed at curbing environmental damage caused by plastic waste, has been met with mixed reactions from shoppers. Some commend the move for its environmental benefits, while others express concern about the added cost of purchasing reusable bags.
The Lagos State Government’s decision to enforce the ban follows growing concerns over the adverse environmental effects of plastic materials, including clogging drainage systems, contributing to pollution, and posing health risks due to their long decomposition times.
