Mr. Fidel Nii Akuffo Bortey has urged the public to adopt responsible plastic waste management practices as part of efforts to combat climate change and safeguard the environment.
Speaking on Plan B FM’s Nyansapo Fie with Akosua Gyamfua, Mr. Bortey expressed concern over the indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste, noting that many people carelessly discard plastic items after use, contributing significantly to environmental pollution.
He cited research indicating that Ghana generates approximately 300 tonnes of plastic waste daily, translating to over one million tonnes annually. However, only about 5% of this waste is recycled, while nearly 50% remains uncollected, often ending up in drains, rivers, and other parts of the environment.
According to him, some individuals also bury plastic waste in the ground, a practice that creates long-term environmental challenges. He emphasized the need for proper waste segregation, encouraging households and businesses to separate plastic waste from organic waste to facilitate efficient recycling and waste management.
Mr. Bortey further explained that plastics can take up to 600 years to decompose, making them one of the most persistent forms of pollution. He noted that the accumulation of plastic waste in rivers and other water bodies contributes to frequent disruptions in water supply systems across many communities.
He also highlighted the combined impact of plastic pollution and illegal mining activities, describing them as major threats to Ghana’s natural resources and environmental sustainability.
In his concluding remarks, Mr. Bortey called on citizens to embrace environmentally friendly practices, dispose of waste responsibly, and actively support recycling initiatives. He stressed that protecting the environment is a collective responsibility and that the actions taken today will help secure a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for generations to come.
By: Ernest Kumi |Planbfmonline.com
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