EPA intensifies styrofoam ban education in five Northern Regions
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is stepping up its nationwide public education campaign on Ghana’s planned ban on polystyrene foam products, commonly known as Styrofoam, as the January 1, 2027, implementation date approaches.
The week-long campaign, scheduled for October 26 to November 1, 2026, will cover five northern regions: Northern, Upper East, Upper West, Savannah and North East. It will target consumers, manufacturers, distributors and other stakeholders to prepare them for the ban.
The EPA announced the restriction as part of efforts to address the environmental and potential health hazards associated with polystyrene foam products and encourage the use of more sustainable alternatives.
The awareness campaign has been organised across three geographical zones: the southern belt, based in Accra; the middle belt, centred on Kumasi; and the northern belt, headquartered in Tamale.
The Accra and Kumasi campaigns took place in July and August, respectively, while the northern belt programme is scheduled for October 29, 2026, bringing together stakeholders from all five northern regions.
Led by the EPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, the delegation will organise mini-durbars in Bolgatanga, Nalerigu, Damongo, Wa and other communities throughout the week, ahead of the main event in Tamale.
In a press release, Professor Browne Klutse reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to enforcing the ban in line with President John Dramani Mahama’s directive.
She explained that the extensive public education exercise was intended to give consumers, manufacturers and distributors adequate time to prepare for the change and identify suitable alternatives.
“The EPA is taking its time to create public awareness of the ban to prepare consumers, manufacturers and distributors for what is coming, effective January 1, 2027, so they can prepare and make the right lifestyle adjustments,” she said.
She added that the Authority was determined to ensure the ban was effectively implemented, warning that the public would not be able to claim ignorance when the deadline arrived.
“No one should have the excuse that they were not aware of this ban. There will be no excuses by January 2027. The EPA is fully ready to carry out His Excellency’s orders to root this out from our country,” she stated.
Schools quiz to promote environmental awareness
The Tamale programme will feature an inter-school environmental quiz involving five second-cycle institutions: Ghana Senior High School, St. Charles Minor Seminary, Tamale Islamic Science Senior High School, Kalpohin Senior High School and Tamale Senior High School.
The competition will assess students’ understanding of environmental challenges, the health risks associated with polystyrene foam products, their environmental impact, the benefits of the ban and the lifestyle adjustments required before and after its implementation.
The initiative is expected to strengthen environmental awareness among young people and encourage them to promote responsible consumption and environmental protection within their communities.
UDS, Bagabaga College to debate impact of ban
The campaign will also feature a debate between the University for Development Studies (UDS) and Bagabaga College of Education on the motion: “BEYOND THE BAN: Can Ghana Turn the Polystyrene Foam Products Phase-Out into Public Health, Environmental and Economic Benefits?”
The UDS team will comprise Angela Ansah as principal speaker, Adu Michel Chibaley as supporting speaker and Shakiratu Cheltima Fuseini as summarising speaker.
Bagabaga College of Education will be represented by Joseph Maadi Sagulo as principal speaker, Mbowura Clement Samira as supporting speaker and Fuseini Abdul-Hakeem Tunteiya as summarising speaker.
The debate will allow the two institutions to examine the implications of the ban and discuss practical alternatives to polystyrene foam products.
Both teams are also expected to present innovative alternative products they have developed to help address potential supply shortages following the implementation of the restrictions.
Traditional authorities, school heads, students and other stakeholders are expected to attend the event, which will also be broadcast live on major television channels to reach a wider audience.
Floats and media engagements to intensify campaign
Ahead of the main event, public awareness floats will be organised in the five regional capitals to mobilise residents and draw attention to the impending restrictions.
The EPA will also increase media engagements and consultations with relevant stakeholders throughout the week. Its regional, area and district offices have been directed to intensify public education as the deadline approaches.
Other EPA officials are already leading campaign teams in various communities, engaging residents and consulting stakeholders on the upcoming ban.
With January 1, 2027, approaching, the Authority says it is strengthening its awareness efforts to ensure that consumers and businesses understand the restrictions, prepare for the transition and adopt environmentally sustainable alternatives.
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