The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is preparing to implement a plastic ban as part of a broader waste management strategy aimed at protecting the environment in Ghana.
Officials plan to introduce a comprehensive recycling and waste segregation program to reduce non-degradable waste, particularly plastics. This initiative seeks to promote recycling and ultimately stop the production of plastic items across the country.
EPA Chief Executive Officer, Professor Nana Ama Klutse, made the announcement during separate engagements at Wovenu and Dzodze Penyi Senior High Schools in the Ketu North Municipality of the Volta Region.
She revealed that a series of activities focused on plastics would begin after June 5, which marks World Environmental Day.
“We want to reduce plastic waste in the country because it harms the environment,” she stated.
Plastic Ban: Phasing Out Plastic and Creating Jobs
Professor Klutse explained that the initial step would be to introduce a waste segregation policy. This policy aims to educate citizens about separating different types of waste for easier disposal and recycling.
She noted that the plastic ban would be enforced in phases to allow a smooth transition for the public and manufacturers. The EPA hopes to phase out plastics gradually, reducing environmental pollution and public health risks.
The waste segregation policy also promises job creation. Youth will be encouraged to collect plastic waste and sell it to recycling factories. This will generate income while expanding employment opportunities at those facilities.
“We want to minimize plastic waste as much as possible,” she added. “Our goal is to slowly phase out plastics in Ghana.”
Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Edem Agbana, pledged his support for the initiative. He committed to placing plastic collection bins at strategic locations in the municipality.
The collected waste will be sent to a recycling company in Accra. The firm will reuse the plastics to manufacture school desks, roofing sheets, and other useful products.
The EPA believes this approach will reinforce environmental responsibility and lay the groundwork for the nationwide plastic ban.
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