President Mahama Announces Nationwide Ban on Styrofoam to Tackle Pollution
Accra, Ghana – As part of bold efforts to combat environmental degradation, President John Dramani Mahama has announced a nationwide ban on the importation, manufacture, and use of Styrofoam takeaway containers in Ghana. The announcement was made during the launch of the One Tree Per Child Initiative at Kwabenya Community Senior High School in Accra, held in celebration of World Environment Day.
The ban targets one of the most persistent urban waste problems—non-biodegradable Styrofoam litter that clogs drains and pollutes communities, especially in densely populated areas like Accra. President Mahama emphasized that Styrofoam is a major pollutant, noting that “people buy food in it and toss it away after just one use,” contributing significantly to Ghana’s waste crisis.
The president reaffirmed his government’s commitment to protecting the environment for future generations, linking this decision to broader efforts to address issues such as illegal mining (galamsey) and rampant deforestation.
As an alternative to Styrofoam, the government plans to encourage the use of paper and aluminum food packaging, which are more environmentally friendly. “We must transition to sustainable solutions that protect both public health and the planet,” the president said.
To ensure smooth implementation, the government will collaborate with the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, working closely with stakeholders across the packaging and food service industries. Manufacturers and importers have already been notified of the upcoming ban, and a nationwide shift toward eco-friendly packaging is set to begin in earnest.
This landmark decision positions Ghana as a regional leader in environmental reform and highlights the urgent need for responsible waste management policies in the face of growing urbanization and climate change.
