Dr. Stephen Appiah Takyi, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of planning, at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, a development planner and an Environmental Sustainability Scholar, said that, Ghana must move beyond its current focus on waste collection and adopt a more modern and sustainable approach to waste management.
He said “Ghana should not just focus on waste collection and embrace modern waste management”.
He said the country needs to move beyond the collection and disposal of waste to a system that promotes recycling, recovery and responsible handling of waste.
Speaking on Orange Sunrise on October 7, 2026, Dr. Appiah Takyi emphasized the importance of public education in changing attitudes towards waste management.
He called for the development of a comprehensive policy document outlining Ghana’s short- and long-term plans for waste management, with clear timelines for implementation.
According to him, the policy should provide a structured roadmap for transforming the sector and ensuring that planned interventions are implemented within defined periods.
Dr. Appiah Takyi further proposed the introduction of pilot programs to test new approaches to waste management before they are expanded nationwide.
He also called for greater inclusion of girls and young women in the recycling industry, saying they should be given opportunities to work with recycling companies and participate actively in recycling initiatives.
He said “a coordinated strategy, backed by sustained public education and clear implementation timelines, would help Ghana improve its waste management system and create greater opportunities for recycling and resource recovery.”
