A coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) working in the environmental sector has called on the Government of Ghana to implement a nationwide ban on single-use plastics. This call was made during a press conference held on Thursday, 5th June 2025 in Accra as part of activities marking World Environment Day 2025. The event, organized by Ghana Youth Environmental Movement (GYEM) in collaboration with A Rocha Ghana and GH Environment, was themed “From Actions to Policy: A Roadmap to Ban Single-Use Plastics in Ghana.” It brought together environmental advocates, youth groups, and policy influencers committed to addressing the growing crisis of plastic pollution in the country.
Awudu Salami S. Yoda, Dir. Environment Report
Speaking at the event, the National Coordinator for GYEM, Glory Emmanuella Appiah, outlined the severe environmental, marine, and public health consequences of single-use plastics. She called on government to enact legislation that would ban the production, importation, and use of single-use plastics nationwide. She also urged policymakers to promote the adoption of biodegradable and reusable alternatives, while strengthening recycling infrastructure and waste management systems. Adding her voice, Project Coordinator for the Green Africa Youth Organization, Mabel Naa Amorkor Laryea, emphasized the importance of improving recycling systems nationwide, noting that it is a critical step in reducing the environmental burden of plastic waste.
Charles Smith, Project Coordinator, Environment Report
Also present at the press conference was Charles Smith, Project Coordinator of the Environment Report, who expressed strong support for the proposed ban, highlighting the collective demand among environmental CSOs for bold and urgent policy reforms.