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Ghana Medical Association to petition government for broader ban on single-use plastics
via GhanaWeb2 min read
The Ghana Medical Association GMA plans to petition the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology to support a wider ban on single-use plastics. Professor Ernest Yorke, President of the GMA, stated on Friday, July 24, 2026, that expanding the proposed ban beyond Styrofoam food containers would help reduce plastic pollution, improve sanitation, and address issues like flooding. Speaking at the 26th Annual Public Lecture in Koforidua, Professor Yorke emphasized that plastic waste contributes to blocked drains, exacerbating flooding, though he acknowledged other factors like urbanization and inadequate drainage. He expressed hope for the full implementation of the government's planned Styrofoam ban next year and called for broader restrictions on other single-use plastic products. Professor Yorke also highlighted the link between food safety and environmental management, stressing the need for improved waste collection, recycling, public education, and stronger enforcement of environmental regulations alongside a ban. He concluded that food safety is a shared responsibility among government, industry, vendors, farmers, consumers, and healthcare professionals, and that sustainable packaging practices are crucial for public health and Ghana's development goals.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by GhanaWeb.
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