Accra launches hotline to report open waste burning

Thirteen municipal assemblies in Accra have launched the ‘Stop Waste Burning’ campaign to combat air pollution. The initiative provides residents with a dedicated hotline to report open waste burning to their local assemblies, which is expected to trigger enforcement of existing bylaws.

According to Desmond Appiah, Country Lead of the Clean Air Fund, waste burning and vehicle emissions are the two primary drivers of poor air quality in the capital. He noted that Ghana is currently facing significant economic losses due to illnesses linked to air pollution, many of which are preventable through improved waste management and circular economy practices like recycling.

Infinity 970, which is running the campaign in partnership with Breathe Cities Accra and the Clean Air Fund, emphasizes that the program focuses on both education and enforcement. Barbara Davis, head of Infinity 970, stated that while residents are aware smoke is harmful, many lack specific knowledge regarding the links between open burning and serious conditions such as cancer and diabetes.

Local authorities, including the Municipal Chief Executive for Ayawaso North, Haruna Mohamed Awal, have begun sensitization efforts in schools to influence household behavior and are preparing to distribute waste bins to residents.