The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced a nationwide ban on the production, importation, sale, distribution, and use of polystyrene foam products, popularly known as Styrofoam takeaway packs, effective January 1, 2027.
The directive forms part of government’s efforts to combat plastic pollution and improve environmental sanitation across the country.
In a statement issued on May 25, 2026, the EPA said the decision follows President John Dramani Mahama’s announcement during the 2025 World Environment Day celebration on government’s intention to ban Styrofoam products in Ghana.
According to the Authority, the ban will apply to all forms of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam products used for commercial and human activities.
The affected products include takeaway food containers, disposable cups and plates, foam packaging used by restaurants and food vendors, ceiling and insulation materials, foam mattresses, bedding materials, and packaging cushions.
However, the EPA clarified that EPS products specifically intended for medical, scientific, laboratory, and diagnostic purposes will be exempted, subject to regulatory approval.
The Authority said manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, hospitality operators, food vendors, and consumers are expected to begin transitioning to safer, reusable, recyclable, and environmentally sustainable alternatives ahead of the implementation date.
The EPA announced that it would undertake nationwide stakeholder engagements, public education campaigns, and technical consultations during the transition period leading to January 2027.
It added that compliance monitoring, regulatory inspections, and enforcement preparedness would also be intensified to ensure full implementation of the directive.
The Authority further disclosed that it would collaborate with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), port authorities, customs officials, and industry regulators to enforce the ban nationwide.
The EPA called on the public to support the initiative by adopting environmentally friendly packaging and sustainable consumption practices.
According to the Authority, the policy is aimed at protecting public health, reducing plastic pollution, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring compliance with environmental standards.
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