AERC Lauds Ghana’s Styrofoam Ban, Urges Broader Plastic Restrictions

The Alliance for Empowering Rural Communities (AERC) has issued a strong commendation to the government of Ghana for its recent decision to impose a nationwide ban on the importation and production of Styrofoam. Describing the policy as a pivotal step towards safeguarding both the environment and public health, AERC’s statement, released on June 9, 2025, highlights the critical need for such an intervention in Ghana’s ongoing struggle with plastic pollution.

The landmark announcement of the ban was made by President John Dramani Mahama during the World Environment Day celebrations on June 5, 2025. This move by the Ghanaian government signals a growing commitment to addressing environmental degradation and promoting sustainable practices across the nation.

AERC’s statement meticulously outlined the severe ecological and health challenges that have plagued Ghana due to the pervasive presence of non-biodegradable plastics. The organization particularly pointed to the disproportionate impact on urban centers, with Accra serving as a prime example. In the capital, blocked waterways leading to perennial flooding, contaminated soils affecting agriculture and public spaces, and heightened health risks stemming from the open-air burning of plastic waste have been persistent issues for years.

“This historic policy marks a vital step forward in safeguarding our environment and public health,” the AERC statement declared. “For years, improper waste disposal, particularly of non-biodegradable plastics, has caused severe ecological and health challenges across Ghana. Urban centers, especially Accra, have been disproportionately affected by these issues, experiencing blocked waterways, contaminated soils, and increased health risks from open-air burning of waste. The Styrofoam ban offers renewed hope for healthier, cleaner, and more resilient communities nationwide.”

A Call for Expanded Action

While unequivocally praising the government’s focus on Styrofoam, AERC used the opportunity to urge the administration to extend the ban to encompass other problematic non-recyclable plastics. The organization specifically called for restrictions on Polyethylene Foam (PE Foam), PVC plastics, single-use plastic films and wraps, and non-recyclable food and beverage containers. AERC emphasized that these materials pose equally significant environmental threats due to their persistence in the environment and the challenges associated with their proper disposal. Expanding the ban would create a more comprehensive and effective strategy for plastic waste management.

To ensure the policy’s success and maximize its positive impact, AERC put forth a series of actionable recommendations. Firstly, they reiterated the need to broaden the ban to cover all non-recyclable single-use plastics. Secondly, they stressed the importance of developing clear enforcement guidelines, complete with defined timelines for implementation and stringent penalties for non-compliance. Thirdly, AERC advocated for actively promoting eco-friendly alternatives by providing robust support for local industries engaged in producing sustainable packaging solutions.

Beyond policy, AERC also highlighted the necessity of investing in modern waste management infrastructure. This includes facilities for sorting, recycling, and safe disposal of unavoidable plastic waste. Finally, the organization recommended the launch of comprehensive nationwide public education campaigns. These campaigns would aim to raise widespread awareness about the dangers of plastic pollution and foster a culture of sustainable practices among citizens.

Commitment to Collaboration and a Greener Ghana

AERC reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to collaborating with various stakeholders to support the ban’s effective enforcement. This includes working hand-in-hand with government agencies, civil society organizations, revered traditional leaders, and the private sector. The organization underscored the critical need for collective action to foster a robust sense of environmental stewardship and ensure the sustained health of communities across Ghana. The Alliance for Empowering Rural Communities envisions a cleaner, greener Ghana, built from the ground up through concerted grassroots efforts and policy advocacy.

The Alliance for Empowering Rural Communities is a non-governmental organization dedicated to advancing sustainable development and environmental protection, particularly in rural areas of Ghana. AERC achieves its mission through a multi-faceted approach that includes education, targeted policy advocacy, and the implementation of practical community-based initiatives, all aimed at improving livelihoods while diligently preserving Ghana’s vital natural resources. The Styrofoam ban represents a significant milestone in this broader environmental movement.