The Association of Table Waters Producers (ATWAP), Umuahia Zone, has strongly criticized HAB 31, a bill proposed to establish the Abia State Polluter Pays and Extended Producer Responsibility for the Management of Non-biodegradable Packaging Materials, labeling it as detrimental to their operations and the livelihoods of many.
In a statement issued on Monday in Umuahia, ATWAP Chairman Peter Nwakanma and Secretary Anthony Nnamaka expressed concerns that the bill, if passed into law, would impose heavy tax burdens on small and medium enterprises (SMEs), potentially crippling businesses already struggling to survive. They warned that the legislation could lead to significant job losses and economic hardship in the state.
“Water is an essential commodity and a universal solvent. Holding us accountable for the government’s failure to provide adequate waste bins is unfair,” Nwakanma stated. The association emphasized that their products are clearly labeled with instructions for consumers to “discard or dispose appropriately,” arguing that proper waste management infrastructure, such as sufficient bins, would prevent littering on Abia’s streets.
ATWAP highlighted its contributions to the state’s economy, including job creation for youths and boosting the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). They urged the Abia State House of Assembly to amend the bill to address these concerns and avoid strangulating SMEs.
However, the bill’s sponsor, Kalu Mba-Nwoke, representing Ohafia South, defended the legislation, dismissing ATWAP’s claims as a misinterpretation. He clarified that the bill aims to encourage manufacturers to adopt eco-friendly packaging and fulfill their Corporate Social Responsibility to reduce environmental pollution, not to harm businesses.
“Governor Alex Otti has been a strong supporter of SMEs,” Mba-Nwoke said, urging ATWAP and other stakeholders to present their concerns at the next public hearing rather than making uninformed statements. He emphasized that the bill seeks innovative solutions to manage non-biodegradable waste and keep Abia’s streets clean.
The debate over HAB 31 continues as stakeholders await further discussions at the upcoming public hearing.
