Accra: The deputy CEO of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) in charge of operations, Professor Michael Ayamga-Adongo, has cautioned importers, distributors, and commercial vendors of polystyrene (styrofoam) products, declaring that enforcement of the nationwide ban will commence strictly on January 1, 2027, with no room for extensions or compromises.
According to Ghana Web, addressing traders and importers during the ongoing market sensitization tours, the deputy EPA boss cautioned businesses against placing new import orders for styrofoam packaging, warning that any consignment brought into the country after the deadline will face immediate confiscation and strict legal penalties.
He dismissed doubts among certain commercial actors who believe the government will not execute the ban, stressing that adequate grace period and public sensitization have been provided. "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. People don't believe that we are going to do it this time, but we want to urge you that we are not stopping anywhere. So don't import and later claim we didn't give you ample time." He warned.
Highlighting that Ghanaian consumers and food vendors are already voluntarily shifting toward eco-friendly packaging, the deputy EPA boss noted that traditional methods, such as wrapping waakye in natural leaves, as well as modern biodegradable paper containers, are gaining rapid traction.
The Professor argued that if street vendors and market women can embrace eco-friendly alternatives, corporate importers and large-scale vendors have no excuse for non-compliance. "If you go around the markets, women who sell waakye will ask you whether you prefer styrofoam or natural leaves. Traders are already making the leap to explore sustainable alternatives. I see no reason why anyone should argue that we cannot do it." He observed.
Reaffirming Ghana's resolve to join other African nations in eliminating non-biodegradable waste, the EPA noted that several countries on the continent have successfully banned styrofoam and single-use plastics without harming their local economies. "Other African countries have done it, and we are going to do it. We are not stopping." He concluded.