The Environmental Protection Authority has announced a nationwide ban on the production, importation, distribution, sale and use of polystyrene foam products, popularly known as Styrofoam or takeaway packs, effective January 1, 2027.
The directive, contained in a statement issued by the Authority yesterday, follows a policy announcement made by President John Dramani Mahama during the World Environment Day celebration on June 5, 2025.
According to the EPA, the move forms part of government’s broader strategy to combat plastic pollution, improve environmental sanitation and protect public health.
The ban will affect a wide range of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam products used for commercial and domestic purposes, including food packaging containers, disposable cups and plates, takeaway packs used by restaurants and chop bars, foam mattresses, bedding materials, packaging and cushioning materials, as well as ceiling and insulation materials made from polystyrene foam.
However, the Authority clarified that EPS products intended for medical, scientific, laboratory and diagnostic purposes would be exempted from the prohibition, subject to regulatory approval.
The EPA explained that all manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, food vendors, hospitality operators and institutions involved in the use of Styrofoam products are expected to begin transitioning to safer and environmentally sustainable alternatives ahead of the enforcement date.
The statement further indicated that the transition period leading to January 2027 would be used for nationwide stakeholder consultations, public education campaigns and technical engagements aimed at ensuring smooth implementation of the policy.
“The Authority will undertake nationwide stakeholder engagement, public education and technical consultations, while simultaneously strengthening compliance monitoring, regulatory inspections and enforcement preparedness,” the statement noted.
The EPA also disclosed that it would collaborate with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), port authorities, customs officials and industry regulators to ensure strict nationwide enforcement of the ban once it takes effect.
Environmental advocates have long raised concerns over the increasing use of Styrofoam products in Ghana, arguing that the material contributes significantly to drainage blockage, flooding and pollution because it is difficult to recycle and does not readily decompose.
The Authority therefore urged the general public to support the initiative by adopting reusable, recyclable and environmentally friendly packaging alternatives.
“Protecting the Environment, Our Collective Responsibility,” the statement concluded.
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