Deputy EPA boss warns importers on styrofoam ban enforcement from January 2027
Professor Michael Ayamga-Adongo, the deputy CEO of the Environmental Protection Authority EPA in charge of operations, has issued a warning to importers, distributors, and commercial vendors of polystyrene styrofoam products. He stated that the nationwide ban on these products will be strictly enforced starting January 1, 2027, with no extensions or compromises. Addressing traders and importers during market sensitization tours, Professor Ayamga-Adongo cautioned against placing new import orders for styrofoam packaging, emphasizing that any consignments brought into the country after the deadline will face immediate confiscation and legal penalties. He dismissed doubts about the government's commitment to the ban, highlighting that an adequate grace period and public sensitization have been provided. The deputy EPA boss also noted a voluntary shift among Ghanaian consumers and food vendors towards eco-friendly packaging, citing the increasing use of natural leaves and modern biodegradable paper containers. He argued that if street vendors can adopt these alternatives, corporate importers and large-scale vendors have no excuse for non-compliance. The EPA reaffirmed Ghana's commitment to eliminating non-biodegradable waste, pointing out that other African nations have successfully banned styrofoam and single-use plastics without negatively impacting their economies.
