The Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Nana Ama Brown Klutse, has officially launched a public education campaign on the ban on Styrofoam and other harmful takeaway packaging at the Kejetia Market in Kumasi.
Speaking at the launch, the EPA CEO said the campaign was aimed at educating traders, manufacturers, distributors and consumers on the health and environmental concerns associated with Styrofoam and the need to adopt safer alternatives.
“The President wants to protect every Ghanaian. The health impact of the Styrofoam is grave for us,” she said, stressing the need for Ghanaians to support the decision to stop using Styrofoam for food packaging and other purposes.
The EPA said the improper disposal of Styrofoam and other single-use plastics contributes to the blockage of gutters and flooding in communities. It also cited growing concerns about the potential health effects associated with the use of Styrofoam for food packaging.
Nana Ama Brown Klutse urged Ghanaians to support the campaign and make the transition to alternative packaging materials made from natural products.
“The alternatives are here. So, we are not just saying you should stop using the takeaway bowls; we are providing the alternatives for you,” she said.
According to the EPA, some of the alternatives being promoted are produced from coconut husks, rice husks, sugarcane and other plant-based materials. Leaves and recyclable aluminium packaging were also highlighted as alternatives that can reduce environmental harm.
The EPA CEO said the use of natural packaging was consistent with practices that existed before the widespread use of petroleum-based packaging materials.
The launch at Kejetia was also used to engage the diverse groups of traders and consumers at the market, with the EPA stressing that what happens at the market has implications for public health and the environment.
The Authority said preparations for the implementation of the ban began in May, with engagements also held with stakeholders, including Kejetia, and public education activities being rolled out through radio, television and other media platforms.
The EPA said January 1 would mark a major point in the implementation of the ban and urged businesses and consumers to begin making the necessary changes ahead of the deadline.
It further announced that the EPA would work with district assemblies, the Police Service and the Food and Drugs Authority to inspect communities and support enforcement of the ban.
The Authority called on Ghanaians to comply with the directive and embrace environmentally friendly alternatives as the country moves towards reducing the use of Styrofoam and other single-use plastics.
By Julius Blay
