Minister-designate for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has called on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to maintain the January 1, 2027 deadline for the ban on the production, importation, distribution, sale and use of polystyrene foam products, commonly known as Styrofoam or takeaway packs.
Speaking before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27, during her vetting, the Korle Klottey MP said the environmental risks associated with Styrofoam were too serious to ignore.
She argued that the ban forms part of broader efforts to tackle Ghana’s growing waste management challenges and encourage more environmentally responsible practices.
Dr Zanetor noted that the EPA had already begun public education ahead of the ban, including awareness activities in Kumasi.
She acknowledged that changing public behaviour could take time but said the government could use incentives and penalties, alongside effective enforcement, to encourage compliance.
“I stand by the fact that the ban timeline has to be maintained.”
She also recalled how people traditionally carried their own containers when buying prepared food, suggesting that Ghana’s increasing reliance on disposable packaging reflects a change in consumer behaviour.
Dr Zanetor’s position signals support for the January 1, 2027 implementation date and places emphasis on strong enforcement and public education to make the policy effective.
