The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has moved its public education campaign on Ghana’s planned ban on polystyrene products to Kumasi as preparations continue towards the January 2027 implementation.
The campaign is aimed at helping businesses, manufacturers, traders and consumers understand why the ban is being introduced, the environmental problems linked to Styrofoam and the alternatives that will be available.
The EPA is using roadshows, market engagements, media discussions and social media to reach the public and give affected businesses enough time to prepare for the change.
The Kumasi exercise is the Authority’s second major public awareness campaign in the middle belt and is being led by its Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse. The first major campaign was launched at Makola in Accra.
In Kumasi, EPA officials are taking the message directly to the public through a roadshow beginning at Anloga Junction and ending at Kejetia Market.
The Authority is also expected to organise a mini durbar at Kejetia to engage traders and consumers on the environmental and health concerns linked to the use and disposal of polystyrene products.
Officials will use the engagement to explain which products will be affected by the ban, discuss alternative packaging options and respond to concerns from businesses and other stakeholders.
The EPA says early public education is important to make the transition easier and reduce possible disruptions for businesses that currently depend on polystyrene packaging.
The campaign will also include media engagements to provide more information about the policy and correct misconceptions surrounding the ban.
As part of its wider activities, the EPA will also hold a policy engagement on Thursday dubbed “EPA in Focus”. The programme will highlight reforms under the new Environmental Protection Act, including changes to the Authority’s mandate and enforcement responsibilities.
The EPA says the planned Styrofoam ban forms part of wider efforts to reduce plastic pollution and encourage the use of more environmentally friendly alternatives.
With the January 2027 deadline approaching, the Authority is encouraging manufacturers, traders, businesses and consumers to begin making the necessary changes ahead of the implementation.