Accra: Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Acting Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, has emphasized the importance of the newly passed Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124), describing it as a critical tool to address emerging environmental challenges. The Minister, in an address read on his behalf at the maiden lecture by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) in Accra, stated that the legislation marked a significant step in strengthening environmental governance and ensuring accountability.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah highlighted that the Environmental Protection Act positions Ghana to better confront environmental risks, enforce compliance, and integrate science and technology into sustainable solutions. The lecture, themed "Redefining Environmental Governance and Climate Action in Ghana," brought together policymakers, practitioners, and partners to reflect, strategize, and take collective responsibility to safeguard Ghana's environment.
Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah emphasized that the environment is fundamental to all sectors of the economy, noting that healthy ecosystems, clean air, safe water, and fertile soils are essential for national development. He cautioned against leaving environmental governance solely to the EPA or the Ministry, describing it as a 'shared responsibility' requiring collaboration from all sectors and citizens. He urged businesses, communities, academia, and individuals to contribute to safeguarding the resources that sustain life.
Reaffirming the government's commitment, Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah pledged leadership, policy direction, and resources to ensure the successful implementation of the Act, while urging all stakeholders to take concrete actions within their communities. Professor Michael Ayamga-Adongo, Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of Operations at the EPA, described the passage of the EP Act, 2025, as a bold statement of Ghana's commitment to sustainability and climate resilience.
Professor Ayamga-Adongo stated that the new law is a mandate and an opportunity to reshape environmental governance. He emphasized that the EPA views the EP Act 2025 as a mandate to ensure stricter environmental compliance, stronger stakeholder engagement, and more effective enforcement of environmental laws. He also highlighted the opportunity to redefine governance structures, industries, and communities in building a greener, cleaner, and climate-resilient Ghana.
Citing climate-induced flooding, droughts, urban air pollution, and plastic waste as pressing challenges, Prof. Ayamga-Adongo stressed the urgency of the task, demanding innovation, inclusivity, and decisive action. He rallied stakeholders to support the EPA in effectively implementing the new legislation.
The Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124), is landmark legislation passed to strengthen Ghana's environmental governance framework. It grants the Environmental Protection Authority enhanced powers to enforce compliance, protect ecosystems, and integrate climate action into national development.
