Ghana Begins Implementation of National Policy on Plastic Alternatives– Dr. Ebenezer Laryea hails government commitment to environmental sustainability and job creation

By Eugene Nyarko Jnr. I Accra, Ghana l — October 30, 2025:

Ghana has taken a significant step toward tackling plastic pollution and promoting sustainable industrial growth with the commencement of the implementation phase of its National Policy Blueprint for Plastic Alternatives and Non-Plastic Substitutes.

Speaking during a media engagement at the Fiesta Royale Hotel, Accra, Dr. Ebenezer Laryea, Reader and Professor at Aston University and Project Director for FRESHPPACT, described the day as “historic”, marking Ghana’s bold move to become a regional leader in developing a thriving plastic alternatives industry.

“Today is a fantastic day. We are here with policymakers to implement Ghana’s national policy blueprint for plastic alternatives and non-plastic substitutes. This blueprint, launched earlier this year, makes Ghana the first country in West Africa to adopt such a roadmap, which could create about 300,000 jobs over the next two decades,” Dr. Laryea noted.

He emphasized that the project is funded by the UK Government, developed in collaboration with the Government of Ghana, and supported by UNCTAD. The workshop, organized in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Blue Skies, aims to guide policymakers on practical steps toward implementing the blueprint.

Dr. Laryea highlighted that the success of this initiative depends on strong multi-stakeholder collaboration, involving government agencies, NGOs, academia, SMEs, and large corporations.

“None of us can do this alone. The first pillar of the policy blueprint calls for stronger stakeholder networks. Through collaboration, Ghana can harness the economic, environmental, and trade benefits of this transition — positioning the country as a regional hub for plastic alternatives under the AfCFTA and ECOWAS markets,” he explained.

He further commended the government’s active participation and commitment, particularly acknowledging Professor Nana Ama Klutsey, Executive Director of the EPA, for her leadership and dedication.

“The government has been excellent in supporting us. Professor Klutsey and her team at the EPA have shown deep commitment to this process. This aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision for job creation and environmental protection,” Dr. Laryea said.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Laryea urged the public to embrace a mindset shift away from single-use plastics, stressing that the transition presents vast economic and environmental opportunities.

“We must begin a paradigm shift. Moving away from single-use plastics is not just an environmental necessity—it’s an economic opportunity. Through this blueprint, we can build a bio-economy that creates jobs, boosts trade, and safeguards the environment for future generations,” he said.

The National Policy Blueprint for Plastic Alternatives and Non-Plastic Substitutes is expected to pave the way for sustainable industrial transformation, positioning Ghana as a model for the region in balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.