The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has ordered Empire Cement Ghana Ltd to immediately suspend operations at its factory following investigations into alleged air pollution and environmental nuisance linked to the company’s activities.
The directive follows several complaints from members of the public concerning alleged pollution from the cement manufacturing facility.
According to the EPA, investigations into the complaints found that the company was emitting sustained levels of visible particulate matter and gaseous pollutants into the surrounding environment.
The Authority said the emissions could have adverse effects on the environment, nearby land uses and public health, leading to enforcement action against the company.
EPA Identifies Environmental Permit Breaches
In a statement issued on September 14, 2026, the EPA said its investigations identified several breaches of conditions attached to Empire Cement Ghana’s Environmental Permit.
The enforcement action was taken under Section 35 of the Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124).
One of the breaches identified by the EPA was the company’s failure to submit its required quarterly environmental monitoring returns, contrary to Condition 9.1 of its Environmental Permit.
The EPA said the failure to provide the monitoring reports constituted a violation of the environmental conditions governing the company’s operations.
Cement Factory Accused of Failing to Control Air Pollution
The Environmental Protection Authority also found that Empire Cement Ghana had allegedly failed to implement important measures required to control air pollution emissions from its factory.
Among the requirements cited was the installation of appropriate and modern pollution control systems on all units responsible for discharging pollutants.
The EPA said such systems are necessary to ensure compliance with the Ghana Standard for Environment and Health Protection – Requirements for Ambient Air Quality and Point Source/Stack Emissions (GS 1236:2019).
The Authority further stated that existing pollution control systems and auxiliary equipment at the facility were not being properly maintained.
According to the EPA, the condition of the equipment affected its ability to effectively control emissions and ensure that pollution levels remained within permissible limits.
Public Health and Environmental Concerns
The EPA said the alleged emissions raised concerns about ambient air quality, environmental protection and public health, particularly because of the potential impact on surrounding communities and adjoining land uses.
The immediate shutdown forms part of the Authority’s enforcement measures aimed at ensuring that industrial facilities comply with Ghana’s environmental regulations and permitted emission standards.
The development highlights the importance of environmental compliance, air quality monitoring, industrial pollution control and public health protection in Ghana’s manufacturing sector.
Source: newsthemegh.com