President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to ban both the importation and local production of Styrofoam in Ghana, citing its severe environmental impact.
Speaking at the launch of the 2025 National Tree Planting Exercise on Thursday, June 5, the President emphasized that Styrofoam—commonly used in food packaging—is among the most harmful pollutants contributing to the country’s growing plastic waste crisis.
“One of the biggest polluters is Styrofoam. You buy your food, it’s packed in that whitish container, and after eating, it’s just dumped. That’s a serious environmental threat,” Mahama stated. “We will ban the importation and production of Styrofoam plastics in Ghana.”
He noted that the Ministry of Environment will soon roll out the necessary policy framework to enforce the ban. The government is urging manufacturers and importers to begin transitioning to more sustainable packaging alternatives such as paper or aluminum foil.
The proposed ban is part of a broader national strategy to promote environmentally responsible practices, restore forest cover, and address the long-term effects of climate change.
President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the environment and called on all stakeholders to support the transition to eco-friendly materials.
