23/02/2024
The recent ban on the use of Polystyrene for fast food packaging by the Lagos state government is a well-informed decision based on extensive research studies conducted both locally and internationally. These studies have unequivocally established the carcinogenic nature of polythene, particularly its susceptibility to health and the environmental hazards it poses. This commendable decision takes into account the potential risks associated with polythene and aims to safeguard public health. Lagos state is priming her self among leagues of States in the United State such as Polystyrene is banned in Colorado, Maine, Maryland, New York, New Jersey, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Washington, D.C. that had earlier taken this all important decision.
According to a recent research article published on dailymail.co.uk, a one-liter bottle of water contains an average of 240,000 plastic particles, whereas tap water only contains 5.5 particles per liter. While the consequences of these particles may not be immediately apparent, it is important not to underestimate the warnings about the risks associated with plastic polymers. Another study reveals that the risk of these polymers depends on the temperature to which they are exposed. In essence, plastic polymers themselves do not present significant health hazards, but when subjected to high temperatures, they release particles that contaminate our food and beverages, ultimately entering our bodies and causing harm over time.
It is a common sight to witness street vendors selling moi moi packaged in waterproof materials. This serves as a glaring example of the cancer-causing plastic polymers. Similarly, sachet and bottled water, which we consume on a daily basis, can also be detrimental. When exposed to temperatures higher than room temperature, these sachets and bottles release hazardous cancer-causing chemicals into the water. Prolonged consumption of such contaminated water can result in the accumulation of these chemicals in our bodies, leading to damage to our organs and systems.
Scientists assert that the human body possesses the ability to combat numerous bacteria and disease-causing organisms. However, when it comes to insoluble chemicals like plastic polymers, they enter the body and persist, accumulating until reaching a threshold where their harmful effects become evident. Regrettably, by that point, it is often too late to take remedial action. Nevertheless, as people of faith, we firmly believe in averting unfortunate circumstances.
The pertinent question that arises is whether the hazards posed by plastic polymers are exclusive to Lagos state. Why do other states and the nation as a whole exhibit indifference towards this issue? It is a well-known fact that we lack a functional public health system that should be raising awareness about the dangers associated with the use of plastic polymers for hot consumables or storing water and other products in plastic containers at temperatures exceeding room temperature.
On the nutshell, bottled/sachet water should be consumed only occasionally when home drinking water is not available, such as when traveling or when your own water supply runs out. It was not originally intended for everyday use, as it is now, because when used infrequently, it takes a long time for the dissolved polymer to reach harmful levels that can be detrimental to the human body.
The cost of living is already high, so we cannot afford to worsen the situation due to ignorance. A timely action saves a lot of trouble in the future.
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