Accra: Lawmakers, environmental experts, and the public have expressed strong support for the government's decision to ban the importation, manufacture, and use of polystyrene foam food packaging. They are also urging an extension of the ban to include all single-use plastics, describing it as a bold step towards curbing plastic pollution and safeguarding public health.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Yaw Frimpong Addo, Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Environment, Science and Technology, emphasized that aligning with global best practices would significantly benefit Ghana. He noted that some countries have already transitioned back to paper packaging, suggesting that this trend should be gradually adopted and fully enforced in Ghana. Mr. Addo expressed his support for the President's idea of banning certain aspects of plastics, provided viable alternatives and strong enforcement are in place.
Mr. Solomon Noi-Adzeman Nuetey, Director of Waste Management at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, also welcomed the proposed ban, citing the environmental and health costs of continued plastic use. He argued that the processing and labor involved in the plastic industry could be redirected towards producing non-toxic alternatives that do not contribute to pollution or contaminate the food chain. Mr. Nuetey highlighted the necessity of modern waste infrastructure, such as waste-to-energy incineration plants, which depend on effective waste segregation at the source.
Public support for the ban is strong, with citizens calling for affordable and accessible eco-friendly packaging options. Ms. Jane Torshie, a trader at Tema Station, urged the government and private sector to promote biodegradable materials like paper, raffia, and calabash. Mr. Kwame Afre, a hawker, stressed the need for practical alternatives, warning that informal businesses would struggle without suitable packaging.
Stakeholders emphasized the importance of enforcement to prevent the smuggling and use of banned items. Agnes Ansah, a journalist, noted that laws alone would not suffice without strong enforcement measures. Polystyrene foam, commonly known as 'takeaway packs,' is widely used in Ghana's food industry but is non-biodegradable and poses significant environmental and health hazards. Ghana generates over one million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with less than 10% recycled.
Environmental groups have consistently advocated for a national plastic reduction policy, supported by legislation and industry innovation. As the country prepares to implement the ban, stakeholders are calling for a phased approach, widespread public education, incentives for sustainable alternatives, and strong inter-agency coordination to ensure long-term success.
