From beaches to plates: How Lagos plastic waste pollutes aquatic life, threatens humans

Lagos’ coastline, once a pristine stretch of sand and gentle waves, now bears the brunt of plastic waste pollution. The issue begins with discarded plastic items that make their way to the beach through the city’s drains, canals, creeks and waterways. These items are then carried along the coast by incoming waves and pulled back into the sea by retreating water. This cycle of plastic waste entering the ocean is evident at various beaches along Lagos’ coastline, such as Alpha Beach, Elegushi Beach, and Takwa Beach.

At Alpha Beach, fishermen like John Akan and Gbeho share that their fishing nets are often entangled with pieces of plastic waste, including bottles, nylon, and sachets. These items have infiltrated the marine ecosystem, posing a threat to aquatic life by entangling fish and other organisms, and by being ingested by them. The waste also breaks down into smaller particles, making it even more challenging to remove from the environment.

The problem is not limited to visible debris; it extends to microscopic particles that are difficult to detect and remove. Elder Adebayo, a long-time resident of the Alpha Beach community, highlights that some locals burn their waste, while others dispose of it at unknown locations, contributing to the accumulation of plastic waste along the coastline. Annabel, another resident, expresses the lack of proper waste disposal facilities, stating that burning waste is the only option available.

The issue is not unique to Alpha Beach; other beaches like Elegushi and Takwa Beach also display a similar struggle with plastic waste pollution. Despite the presence of private operators managing these beaches, cleanliness varies across different sections, with some areas showing higher levels of plastic waste than others. The waste can be seen mixed with seaweed, driftwood, and other debris, indicating the widespread nature of the issue.

In conclusion, the plastic waste accumulating along Lagos’ coastline poses a significant threat to both marine life and human health. The problem stems from inadequate waste disposal systems and a lack of proper facilities for residents to dispose of their waste. Addressing this issue requires immediate action to improve waste management practices and prevent further harm to the marine ecosystem and those who rely on it for their livelihoods and well-being.