Environment, Science and Technology Minister-designate Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings has thrown her support behind Ghana’s planned January 1, 2027 ban on polystyrene foam products, commonly known as Styrofoam or takeaway packs.
The proposed ban covers the production, importation, distribution, sale and use of polystyrene products as the government intensifies efforts to tackle environmental pollution and Ghana’s growing waste management challenges.
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings made the comments on Thursday, August 27, 2026, during her vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee following her nomination as Minister-designate for Environment, Science and Technology.
Zanetor Supports Ghana’s Styrofoam Ban
The Korle Klottey Member of Parliament said the environmental dangers associated with the widespread use and improper disposal of polystyrene and disposable packaging could no longer be ignored.
She stressed that maintaining the January 1, 2027 deadline would be an important step towards reducing plastic pollution, environmental degradation and waste management problems in Ghana.
According to Dr Agyeman-Rawlings, changing public attitudes towards single-use packaging will also be critical to the success of the Styrofoam ban in Ghana.
EPA Intensifies Public Education Ahead of Ban
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings also highlighted ongoing public education by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ahead of the implementation of the polystyrene ban.
She cited a recent awareness campaign in Kumasi as evidence that preparations are already underway to educate businesses, consumers and the general public about the upcoming restrictions.
She said the environmental and health concerns associated with the use of polystyrene products should not be overlooked.
Behaviour Change Needed to Reduce Plastic Waste
The Minister-designate noted that Ghana’s increasing reliance on disposable food packaging reflects a broader change in consumer behaviour.
She recalled a time when people commonly carried their own containers when purchasing food, contrasting that practice with the widespread use of plastic and disposable takeaway containers today.
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings acknowledged that behavioural change takes time but said it could be encouraged through public education, incentives and appropriate penalties.
Enforcement Key to Successful Polystyrene Ban
According to the Minister-designate, the success of the January 1, 2027 Styrofoam ban will ultimately depend on effective enforcement and the commitment of authorities to implement the policy.
She maintained that the deadline should remain unchanged as Ghana works to address plastic waste, environmental pollution and poor waste management practices.
The EPA is expected to continue its public awareness campaigns ahead of the implementation date, helping businesses and consumers prepare for the restrictions on Styrofoam and polystyrene takeaway packs.
The planned ban forms part of broader efforts to promote environmental sustainability, responsible waste disposal and improved waste management in Ghana.
Source: newsthemegh.com