Tackling environmental pollution: Waste segregation way to go - Stakeholders
With plastic pollution contributing significantly to environmental degradation and flooding, stakeholders say proper waste segregation and management must become a shared responsibility.
In an effort to combat plastic pollution and safeguard the environment, stakeholders have been advocating for waste segregation as a crucial solution. Despite numerous awareness campaigns, waste segregation remains a rarity among many Ghanaians. Plastic waste is a significant contributor to environmental degradation and flooding, as it clogs drains and gutters during heavy rainfall, exacerbating the problem.
One individual who has embraced waste segregation is the reporter, who separates plastic waste like pure water sachets, bottled water, and drink containers from other household refuse. These plastics are then collected by individuals who sell them to recycling companies for processing and reuse.
Easeoff Environmental Safety, a private recycling company, was visited to demonstrate the recycling process. The facility sorts and processes various plastic products, including malt and beverage bottles. Rita Arthur, an operator at the plant, explained that recycled polythene can be repurposed into items like dolls, wellington boots, bowls, buckets, and even hair extensions.
She urged Ghanaians to adopt waste segregation at home, emphasizing that by separating pure water rubbers and bottles, they can be purchased and recycled into other plastic products.
Chief Tony Addison Dodoo, the Chief Coordinator for the Keep Greater Accra Clean Project, highlighted the severity of plastic pollution in the environment. Most Accra's drains flow into the sea, so discarded plastic waste ends up in the ocean, causing harm to marine habitats. He stressed the importance of separating plastic waste from organic waste to prevent flooding and recommended that individuals separate their plastic waste from organic waste and find collectors for recycling.
Chief Addison Dodoo also warned against defecating in polythene bags and dumping them in bins or on the streets, as this contaminates plastic waste and hinders the recycling process. Those found guilty of this act may face appropriate sanctions. As stakeholders urge Ghanaians to embrace waste segregation, the practice can begin in one's own home by separating plastic waste from organic waste and finding collectors for recycling.
This simple habit can help reduce plastic pollution and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment.
Written by urgent.news from 3News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
