Omanghana
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is extending its public education campaign to five northern regions ahead of Ghana’s planned nationwide ban on disposable polystyrene foam products from January 1, 2027.
The week-long exercise, scheduled for October 26 to November 1, 2026, will cover the Northern, Upper East, Upper West, Savannah and North East regions. It aims to help consumers and businesses prepare for the withdrawal of foam takeaway packs from the market.
Food vendors, manufacturers, distributors and members of the public are among the groups targeted for engagement. The outreach will explain the scope of the restrictions and encourage the adoption of alternative packaging before the implementation date.
Activities will include traditional durbars, a schools quiz and a university debate, providing platforms for community members and students to discuss the transition.
With Tamale serving as its centre, the northern phase follows outreach organised around Accra and Kumasi for the southern and middle belts.
The planned directive covers the production, importation, distribution, sale and use of disposable polystyrene containers. It follows a phase-out strategy announced during World Environment Day in June 2025.
The EPA’s campaign highlights concerns about the environmental impact of discarded foam packaging, particularly its persistence in the environment and contribution to litter. Takeaway containers can also obstruct gutters and drainage channels, worsening sanitation problems and flood risks.
Public health concerns associated with the use and disposal of foam food containers form another part of the education effort.
As the deadline approaches, the campaign is encouraging food vendors, hospitality businesses and other users to prepare for a transition to suitable alternatives, including paper-based and biodegradable packaging.
Source: Omanghana
