Ghana’s EPA: Styrofoam ban signals wider plastic crackdown

GHANA – Ghana’s EPA has confirmed the styrofoam food container ban from 1 January 2027 represents the first phase of a broader national strategy to eliminate single-use plastics, as market monitoring already shows traders stocking eco-friendly alternatives.

EPA CEO Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse stated that the policy was a presidential directive driven by scientific evidence on the environmental and public health risks associated with styrofoam, which is non-biodegradable and contributes significantly to blocked drains while posing risks to human and marine life. 

She dismissed claims that the ban was designed to benefit particular commercial interests, stressing that the decision was based solely on the need to protect public health and the environment. 

Market Monitoring Shows Alternatives Already Available

Recent EPA monitoring at major markets including Kejetia and Makola revealed that traders selling styrofoam packaging are already stocking sustainable alternatives. 

Klutse listed available options including paper-based packaging, recycled aluminium foil, recyclable plastic containers, and packaging produced from agricultural by-products such as bamboo, rice husks and coconut fibres. 

“Before takeaway boxes became popular, Ghanaians were comfortably buying waakye, kenkey and other local foods. The alternatives are already here in our markets,” she stated.

Citing Nigeria, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania as examples of African countries that had successfully restricted or phased out single-use plastics, Klutse expressed confidence that Ghana could similarly transition without undermining the food vending sector. 

The transition to sustainable packaging materials supports Ghana’s recycling goals by reducing the volume of non-biodegradable waste entering the environment.

Deputy EPA Boss Warns Importers: No Extensions After 1 January 2027

Deputy CEO of EPA in charge of operations, Professor Michael Ayamga-Adongo, has cautioned importers and traders against placing fresh orders for styrofoam products, warning that consignments brought into the country after the deadline will be confiscated and offenders subjected to legal action. 

“We have given ample time, and if at this point in time you still decide to go importing polystyrene products and their derivatives, you are definitely going to be dealing with us when January 1 comes,” he warned. 

The EPA has undertaken extensive sensitisation to give businesses sufficient time to adjust, with Ayamga-Adongo urging those still dealing in styrofoam to transition to environmentally friendly alternatives rather than risk losses and legal sanctions. 

The Authority has stated it will not reverse the decision after the enforcement date.

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