Ghana EPA bans Styrofoam and adopts six new environmental regulations

Ghana’s Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) announced a proposed ban on Styrofoam products, with full enforcement planned for early 2027. Environmental scientist Dr. Owusu Fordjour Aidoo praised the move, warning that Styrofoam’s non‑biodegradable nature and toxic leachates pose serious ecological and public‑health risks, including kidney damage and increased cancer risk. He urged an accelerated timeline and immediate cessation of Styrofoam production to limit further pollution.

In parallel, the government introduced six new regulations to operationalise EPA Act 1124, covering environmental assessment, effluent management, air quality, ozone protection, petroleum operations, and certification of air‑conditioners. Acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah said the EPA would train staff, recruit additional personnel and open new district offices to strengthen enforcement and compliance across the country.