In a bold step toward environmental responsibility, CHI Limited—one of Nigeria’s foremost beverage and dairy producers—has announced the rollout of paper straws across its popular products, including Chivita juice, Capri Sun, and Hollandia yoghurt. This initiative places the company among the first major Nigerian manufacturers to align with the Lagos State Government’s crackdown on single-use plastics.
The Lagos State Government will begin enforcing the ban on single-use plastics, including Styrofoam, disposable cups, plastic straws, and thin single-use bags, on July 1, 2025.
Lagos, a city of over 20 million people, produces more than 13,000 tons of waste daily, with single-use plastics like straws and nylon bags contributing disproportionately to blocked drainage systems, marine pollution, and broader health concerns. The government’s upcoming ban signals a policy shift that aims to reduce the environmental footprint of urban consumption.
Meeting the Moment
CHI Limited’s transition to recyclable paper straws comes not just as a compliance move, but as a signal of its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Deepanjan Roy, Managing Director of CHI Limited, emphasized this vision, stating:
“This change reflects our commitment to sustainability and supporting the Lagos State Government’s vision for a cleaner environment.”
Since its acquisition by The Coca-Cola Company in 2019, CHI Limited has increasingly adopted global best practices in packaging and waste reduction. The new paper straws complement the company’s six-layer aseptic packaging, which already provides recyclable, shelf-stable packaging for its beverages—balancing product integrity with eco-friendliness.
Riding a Global Wave
CHI’s move reflects a broader global trend. The European Union’s Single-Use Plastics Directive, implemented in 2021, spurred a wave of innovation in packaging across Europe, with many beverage companies—including Capri Sun internationally—switching to biodegradable or paper-based alternatives.
In Nigeria, the environmental push is gaining momentum, particularly in Lagos, where regulators are urging manufacturers to consider alternatives such as bamboo, compostable polymers, and recyclable cartons. A proposed Plastics Waste Management Fund is also in the works, aimed at supporting research and innovation in plastic alternatives and improving urban waste management infrastructure.
Consumer Concerns and Innovation
As with any packaging shift, public opinion is mixed. While many consumers have welcomed the eco-conscious move, others have expressed caution based on experiences with paper straws abroad.
“We hope these paper straws hold up well for our kids who love Capri Sun,” said Aisha Bello, a mother of two in Lagos.
In response, CHI Limited has stressed that its new paper straws have been engineered for durability and comfort, addressing past issues seen in other markets where soggy, collapsing straws became a consumer headache. According to the company, rigorous testing has gone into ensuring that the straws retain functionality without compromising the drinking experience.
Sustainability as Strategy
More than a marketing play, this packaging innovation reflects a broader corporate shift toward sustainable business models. With multinational backing and growing local regulation, companies like CHI Limited are investing in solutions that not only meet policy demands but also resonate with a generation of environmentally conscious consumers.
As 2025 approaches, CHI Limited’s paper straw rollout sets a precedent for other manufacturers operating in Nigeria’s consumer goods sector. The initiative may spark wider adoption of alternative packaging and drive conversations about how companies can lead in the transition toward a circular economy.
Conclusion
By prioritizing environmental sustainability while maintaining product quality, CHI Limited has positioned itself as a pioneer in Nigeria’s packaging evolution. The introduction of paper straws is more than a response to regulation—it’s a forward-thinking investment in the planet, public health, and the long-term viability of Nigeria’s fast-moving consumer goods sector.
As Lagos State readies itself for a plastic-free future, CHI Limited’s move is a refreshing sign that some of Nigeria’s biggest brands are ready to lead the way.
