Accra, April 1, – The Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST) is advancing a draft Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) law to strengthen plastic waste management in Ghana.
The legislation, currently under stakeholder consultations, will require producers of plastic products to take responsibility for the collection, recycling, and proper disposal of waste generated from their activities.
Dr Peter Dery, Director of Environment at MEST, told the Ghana News Agency that the draft bill, to be submitted to the Attorney-General, will become the Extended Producer Responsibility Act rather than a mere Legislative Instrument, giving it more legislative weight.
The Ministry is also developing an electronic registry system to track plastic waste generation and recovery, which Dr Dery described as critical for implementation. He noted that although plastic waste is abundant in the environment, recyclers often report insufficient supplies, highlighting inefficiencies in waste collection.
The EPR framework will allow for the establishment of Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs), potential funding mechanisms, and cooperatives linking producers with waste collectors. Additionally, the Ministry aims to phase out certain single-use plastics, including low-micron bags and straws, while exploring viable alternatives.
Data from the World Bank indicate that Ghana generates approximately 0.84 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with only 9.5% collected for recycling, leaving the majority polluting drains, water bodies, and open spaces.
Participants at the dialogue, organised in collaboration with Praxis Africa to mark International Zero Waste Day, called for coordinated action. Mr Solomon Noi of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly urged a clear roadmap with measurable targets, while Togbe Nyassor Ababio V recommended a National Zero Plastic Waste Coordination Platform to enhance inter-agency collaboration.
Ogyegu Korankye Wontumi II, Country Director of Praxis Africa, emphasised public education and behavioural change as critical components for achieving environmental sustainability.
GHBUSS
1 April 2026
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