By Our Democracy News GH
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is intensifying public education on Ghana’s impending ban on polystyrene foam products, commonly known as Styrofoam, as the January 1, 2027, implementation deadline approaches.
The week-long campaign, scheduled for October 26 to November 1, 2026, will cover the Northern, Upper East, Upper West, Savannah and North East regions.
The initiative targets consumers, manufacturers, distributors and other stakeholders to prepare them for the transition to environmentally sustainable alternatives.
Led by EPA Chief Executive Officer, Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, the campaign will include community durbars in Bolgatanga, Nalerigu, Damongo, Wa and other communities, culminating in a major public awareness event in Tamale on October 29.
According to the EPA, the ban forms part of efforts to address the environmental and health concerns associated with polystyrene foam products.
Professor Browne Klutse stressed that the Authority was committed to ensuring effective implementation of the ban in line with President John Dramani Mahama’s directive.
She warned that consumers and businesses would have no excuse for failing to comply, emphasising that the ongoing campaign was intended to give all stakeholders sufficient time to prepare.
The Tamale event will also feature an inter-school environmental quiz involving five senior high schools, alongside a debate between the University for Development Studies and Bagabaga College of Education on the potential public health, environmental and economic benefits of phasing out polystyrene foam products.
Both institutions are expected to showcase innovative alternatives that could help address potential supply gaps following the ban.
In addition, the EPA will organise public awareness floats in the five regional capitals, conduct media engagements and intensify consultations with stakeholders.
The Authority says the campaign is aimed at ensuring that Ghanaians understand the impending restrictions and adopt sustainable alternatives before the ban takes effect on January 1, 2027.
