The President, John Dramani Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has hinted that his government will soon ban the importation and production of Styrofoam plastics in Ghana as part of efforts to tackle environmental pollution.
Speaking at an event to mark World Environment Day in Ghana on Friday, the President described Styrofoam food packaging as one of the major contributors to pollution in the country.
“That is one of the biggest polluters. And so, we’re going to ban the importation of Styrofoam plastics. We have to use paper packaging or aluminum foil for packaging our food. And so, I’m informing the manufacturers and importers of Styrofoam,” he stated.
He noted that the Ministry of Environment will work closely with manufacturers and importers to ensure a smooth transition from Styrofoam to more eco-friendly alternatives.
“With the Ministry of Environment, soon we’re going to ban the importation of Styrofoam and production of Styrofoam in Ghana. Our food packaging will be made from paper and also from aluminum material,” he added.
Mahama reiterated his commitment to environmental sustainability and called on all stakeholders to support the new policy direction.
Styrofoam plastics are lightweight materials made from expanded polystyrene, commonly used for food containers, cups, and packaging.
While cheap and convenient, they are harmful to the environment because they do not decompose easily, pollute water bodies, and pose health risks.
Many countries are banning them in favor of eco-friendly alternatives like paper and aluminum.
To mark the 2025 World Environment Day, key stakeholders from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Plastic Punch, the Food and Beverage Association of Ghana (FABAG), and SNEDA Supermarket stressed the urgent need for policy reforms, stronger business leadership, and active public participation in addressing the plastic pollution.
The theme for the 2025 celebration “Beat Plastic Pollution,” seeks to raise global awareness about the damaging effects of plastic waste on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health.
Watch the video below:
LIVE | Ghana will soon ban the use of styrofoam plastic — President Mahama as he delivers speech at the World Environment Day. pic.twitter.com/AuwNhb4LRW
— ThisIsNeneOdompleh (@The1957News) June 5, 2025
JKB/AE
Watch Wontumi appear unsteady after release from EOCO custody