The Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, has called for nationwide support for the ban on polystyrene foam products, warning that the widespread use of styrofoam has imposed significant environmental and public health costs despite its convenience.
Speaking at the launch of a nationwide awareness campaign on the ban of polystyrene foam products at Rawlings Park in Accra on Tuesday, July 28, Prof. Klutse said plastics had become deeply embedded in Ghana’s economy over the past three decades, supporting key sectors while contributing to growing environmental challenges.
“Over the past three decades, plastics have become heavily embedded in our national economy, and they support key sectors of the economy,” she said.
“While plastics have provided convenience and cost advantages, especially single-use plastics, they have also resulted in severe environmental consequences, including health challenges.”
Prof. Klutse explained that the campaign seeks to educate the public on the reasons behind the ban on polystyrene takeaway food containers and to encourage the adoption of safer and more sustainable alternatives.
She noted that polystyrene products are used for a wide range of purposes beyond food packaging, including building materials, mattresses and transport packaging, making public education critical to the successful implementation of the policy.
“Some are used for ceilings in our buildings, some for mattresses that we sleep on, some for packaging and transportation, and many more. This awareness campaign is about educating the public, and we are pleased that many voices have joined us to demonstrate how harmful these food packs can be,” she said.
Prof. Klutse urged every sector of society to support the campaign, stressing that collective action would be essential to reducing plastic pollution and protecting public health.
“We are here to launch the campaign, and everyone must get involved. By everyone, I mean every sector of the economy has a role to play in this effort,” she stated.
She acknowledged that styrofoam food containers have become a common feature of daily life in Ghana, from homes and restaurants to schools, bakeries and street food vendors, adding that the transition away from the products would require patience and public cooperation.
“For many years, styrofoam has become part of our lives. It carries our food at home, on the streets, in bakeries, restaurants and schools. Everywhere we turn, we see these products,” she said.
“We understand that moving away from them will not be easy, and we recognise the concerns being raised by traders and market women. That is why we are providing education and answers throughout this campaign.”
Prof. Klutse emphasised that the convenience offered by styrofoam products could no longer outweigh the environmental damage and potential health risks associated with their continued use.
“The convenience they provide comes at a very high environmental cost. We can no longer ignore the environmental and health challenges these styrofoam products present. We must all support this campaign to protect our environment and future generations,” she added.
