By Williams Odunze
The Imo State House of Assembly has urged the State Governor, Hope Uzodinma to direct the Ministry of Health and other relevant bodies to ban the use of Styrofoam in the State because of its health implications.
The resolution came following the adoption of the motion moved by the member representing Aboh Mbaise Constituency, Princewill Ugochukwu Amuchie ,who emphasized much on the health implications of the use of the item.
Explaining further, Amuchie noted that the hazardous effects of the particular product is already in the public domain which he said prompted the Lagos State Government to stop its production and usage in the State.
The Lawmaker, maintained that, indiscriminate use and disposal of the product at eatery joints and events places contribute to the environmental pollution which according to him portends danger to human life.
The Aboh Mbaise representative, narrated that the continuous production and process of disposing the Styrofoam constitutes what he described as toxic chemicals that are capable of contaminating the air, water and soil creating incurable diseases such as cancer, reproductive problems.
He pointed out that if Lagos State Government and some countries can ban its public use , nothing stops the State Government from putting to an end its use in the State.
Amuchie, after his presentation, urged his colleagues to lend their voices in support of the motion.
The members, after much deliberation, resolved to urge the Governor to direct the Ministry of Health and other relevant bodies to put to stop the use of the item.
The House, further resolved to urge the Governor to provide alternative packaging products that are healthwise.
The members also resolved to urge the Governor to embark on public enlightenment campaign on the ban and set up taskforce to enforce it.