Binduri Naaba urges EPA to prosecute violators of Styrofoam ban

Binduri Naaba and Alhaji Akorlbila Agetwin Robert have urged the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) to take legal action against those who break Ghana's upcoming ban on Styrofoam products, emphasizing that strict enforcement is crucial for compliance. Naaba described the ban, along with single-use plastics, as long overdue, citing the pollution crisis and the urgent need for decisive action to protect the environment.

During a stakeholder engagement in Bolgatanga, Naaba commended the John Mahama-led government's initiative but stressed that prosecution must be part of the implementation process. "As a custodian of the environment, I welcome the ban. Prosecution must be part of the implementation, and all violators must face legal consequences," he said.

Naaba warned that an approach focusing solely on raising public awareness without holding violators accountable would be ineffective. The call for strict enforcement comes as the EPA ramps up nationwide public education ahead of the January 1, 2027, ban on Styrofoam products. The Authority has launched a week-long awareness campaign across northern Ghana, engaging stakeholders and educating communities on the policy and its environmental impact.

The campaign aims to deepen public understanding of the ban, promote responsible consumer choices, and secure voluntary compliance before enforcement begins. Manufacturers, importers, and distributors have been given advance notice to stop stocking prohibited products ahead of the ban, which will take effect without an extension.

The northern Ghana campaign follows similar efforts in Accra and Kumasi and will culminate in a major durbar in Tamale, featuring a public float, a quiz competition, and a debate on Styrofoam pollution and the ban's importance. The EPA is using these engagements to mobilize traditional authorities, businesses, institutions, and the public behind the policy as Ghana prepares to phase out the prohibited products.