Kumasi: The Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, has led a high-level delegation to the Manhyia Palace to pay a courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. The visit was aimed at seeking his royal blessings ahead of a two-day public education campaign on polystyrene foam (styrofoam) products in the Ashanti Region.
According to Ghana Web, the courtesy visit was intended to brief the Asantehene on the EPA's nationwide sensitization drive regarding the upcoming ban on styrofoam products. The EPA is seeking traditional support to ensure high compliance across markets and commercial hubs in the region.
Speaking to the media after visiting the Manhyia Palace, Prof. Klutse expressed gratitude to the Asantehene for his warm reception and unconditional endorsement of the EPA's environmental protection mandate. She emphasized the importance of securing royal approval before launching the awareness campaign and highlighted the Asantehene's understanding of environmental sustainability issues.
Prof. Klutse explained that the nationwide sensitization exercise is designed to prepare traders, food vendors, manufacturers, and the general public ahead of the official nationwide ban on styrofoam products, set to take effect on January 1, 2027. She noted that extending the education to the Ashanti Region is crucial due to its status as Ghana's central commercial hub.
Detailing the environmental and health hazards posed by expanded polystyrene foam, the EPA boss pointed out that the material is non-biodegradable and causes long-term ecological damage. She highlighted the dangers of urban flooding and air pollution caused by styrofoam waste.
Ghana is aligning with global environmental best practices, following similar bans implemented in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and Tanzania. Prof. Klutse revealed that sustainable, biodegradable alternatives are already available in the Ghanaian market, with local factories producing eco-friendly packaging from agricultural by-products.
Addressing concerns raised by commercial investors and manufacturers of styrofoam packaging, Prof. Klutse assured that the EPA has structured engagement plans to discuss transition strategies. The authority is working with heavy investors to retool their factories towards manufacturing biodegradable alternatives.
Welcoming the EPA delegation, the Asantehene commended Prof. Klutse and her team for their proactive approach to environmental governance and public health education. He emphasized the crucial role of the EPA in safeguarding the lives of Ghanaians and encouraged sustained public engagement and enforcement of environmental laws.