EPA Confirms Plastic Ban Targets Only Single-Use, Non-Recyclable Items
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has confirmed that the country’s upcoming plastic ban will focus solely on single-use and non-recyclable plastic products, aiming to reduce environmental pollution and ease pressure on waste management systems.
Focus on Problematic Plastics
Speaking at the 2025 Environmental Sustainability Summit in Accra, Hope Lomotey, Acting Director of the EPA’s Human Settlement Unit, clarified that the plastic regulation is not a total ban on all plastics but is instead targeting those that cannot be recycled.
“The single-use ones are the challenge now,” Lomotey emphasized during the summit, held under the theme: ‘Ending Plastic Waste in Ghana: A Sustainable Future for All’.
The policy direction comes following the enactment of the Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124), which consolidates oversight of the country’s environmental policies under the EPA. The move is a response to the alarming statistic that Ghana generates 1.1 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, of which only 5% is recycled.
Transitioning to a Circular Economy
The EPA stressed that the goal is to create a circular economy that encourages reuse and recycling. Plastic products that are non-recyclable or environmentally harmful, including plastic straws and certain types of sachet films, are to be phased out.
“Problematic plastic that cannot be recycled will never be tolerated,” Lomotey said, adding that the agency is developing a roadmap to manage legacy waste and guide industries through the transition.
Industry Consultations Underway
Although the announcement has reassured some stakeholders, preliminary discussions with plastic manufacturers have highlighted tension between regulatory goals and business operations. Many businesses have expressed concerns over costs, technological readiness, and timelines for the policy rollout.
However, analysts say the EPA’s clear stance is crucial for compliance, especially for industries that heavily rely on packaging materials.
Aligning with National Strategy and Presidential Directives
The plastic regulation is in line with the National Plastic Management Strategy (2020), which encourages the adoption of sustainable alternatives such as paper, jute, and biodegradable materials.
The announcement also complements President Mahama’s recent directive banning the importation and production of styrofoam, positioning this new plastic regulation as one of the country’s boldest environmental reforms to date.
What to Expect Next
- A phased ban starting with straws, sachets, and other low-recyclability items
- Stakeholder consultations with manufacturers and importers
- Promotion of eco-friendly packaging alternatives
- Public education campaigns on recycling and proper waste disposal
As the EPA moves forward with implementation, both businesses and consumers are expected to adjust practices in line with Ghana’s commitment to achieving sustainable environmental stewardship.
Read Also: President John Mahama To Ban Import and Production of Styrofoam in Ghana
