A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) communications team in the Tema Central Constituency, Richard Aning, has expressed opposition to the government’s planned ban on polystyrene foam products, popularly known as Styrofoam or takeaway packs.
According to him, the country should focus on improving waste management and segregation rather than rushing to ban the products outright.
“We should find a way to eliminate waste, not rush to ban the importation of takeaway packs. We should learn the segregation of waste from substance to what is right,” he stated.
His comments come after the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) announced that Ghana will officially ban the production, importation, distribution, sale, and use of polystyrene foam products effective 1st January 2027.
The directive follows a policy announcement made by President John Dramani Mahama during the 2025 World Environment Day celebration on June 5, aimed at reducing plastic pollution and improving environmental sanitation across the country.
According to the EPA, the ban will affect all expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam products used for commercial and domestic purposes, including food containers, disposable cups and plates, packaging materials, insulation products, and foam-based bedding materials.
However, EPS products intended for medical, scientific, laboratory, and diagnostic purposes will be exempted, subject to regulatory approval.
Speaking on Plan B FM’s Ebaanosen programme hosted by Ohene Kinnah, Richard Aning argued that the policy could negatively affect businesses and lead to unemployment.
He questioned whether government has provided suitable alternatives ahead of the implementation of the ban.
“The ban will cripple investments and eventually lead to unemployment. What is the alternative from government if this product is banned?” he asked.
He also raised concerns about the availability of substitutes, questioning the number of companies currently producing paper bags in Ghana to meet expected demand once the ban takes effect.
By: Bernard Mensah |Planbfmonline.com
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