Ghana to Ban Polystyrene Products from January 1, 2027
Ghana will ban the importation, production, distribution, sale, and use of polystyrene foam products from 1 January 2027, the Environmental Protection Authority has announced.
The directive follows a policy announcement made by President John Dramani Mahama on June 5, 2025, during World Environment Day celebrations.
The government described the ban as a key measure to combat plastic pollution and protect public health and the environment.
The EPA said the ban will cover all forms of expanded polystyrene foam products used for human and commercial purposes.
These include food packaging containers and takeaway packs, disposable cups and plates, foam packs used by restaurants and food vendors, ceiling and insulation materials, foam mattresses and bedding, and packaging and cushioning materials.
Excluded from the ban are EPS products intended specifically for medical, scientific, laboratory, and diagnostic purposes, subject to approval by the relevant regulators.
The Authority has called on manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, food vendors, hospitality operators, and institutions to begin transitioning to safer, reusable, recyclable, and environmentally sustainable alternatives ahead of the deadline.
Between now and January 2027, the EPA said it will carry out nationwide stakeholder engagement, public education, and technical consultations.
It will also strengthen compliance monitoring, inspections, and enforcement preparedness to ensure adherence to the directive.
The Authority plans to work with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, port authorities, customs officials, and industry regulators to enforce the ban nationwide once it takes effect.
The EPA urged the public to support the measure by adopting sustainable consumption practices and using environmentally friendly packaging alternatives.
Story by Hajara Fuseini
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