Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, the minister of environment, science, technology, and innovation (MESTI), has called for a coordinated effort by state and non-state players to address the problem of plastic pollution in the nation.
He noted that it was crucial for all people and institutions to work together to end the problem, considering the serious effects plastic pollution has on the environment and human health.
In a statement released to commemorate this year's World Environment Day (WED), the minister emphasised the necessity of all stakeholders in the waste management sector working together to end single-use plastics in the country.
"The collection of single-use plastics, also known as orphan plastics or plastics smaller than 20 microns, and their improper disposal, are the main issues facing Ghana,"
Let's reject single-use or orphaned plastics and chart a course for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment for both now and the future, he urged. "Let us use this day as a catalyst for social change to collectively beat plastic pollution in Ghana," he said.
The minister continued by saying that in order to effectively manage plastic waste in order to protect the environment and promote greener and better lifestyles, ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), along with other partners, must band together.
Day of the Environment
Every year, the UN proclaims June 5 as World Environment Day (WED) to emphasise to its members the need to take proactive measures to reduce environmental crimes.
The day provides the biggest worldwide stage for environmental campaigns designed to increase public understanding and response to environmental challenges.
The event, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, will be held by Cote d'Ivoire in collaboration with the Netherlands.
The celebration's goals are to raise regular public awareness of and education about new environmental issues, act as a strong platform to accelerate, amplify, and engage individuals, communities, and governments globally, and inspire action on the most pressing environmental issues facing the world today.
The goal of this year's WED is to increase efforts to combat the plastic scourge. The topic is "Solutions to Plastic Pollution," with the tagline "Beat Plastic Pollution."
Collaboration
In keeping with the subject, Dr. Afriyie stressed the importance of cooperation between governments, businesses, and individuals in order to successfully develop and implement long-lasting solutions to address the risks that plastic pollution poses to both human health and the environment.
Observing the WED, according to Dr. Afriyie, offered the government a chance to recommit itself "to beat plastic pollution and provide solutions to plastic pollution."
He gave the people of Ghana the assurance that the government would step up its policies and actions to assist the nation's plastic pollution problem.
Regarding this, he stated that MESTI will collaborate with other stakeholders, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to carry out initiatives that would support sustainable management of plastics.
According to him, the goal of these initiatives would be to promote "edible and compostable packaging as a sustainable alternative to single-use plastics."
Dr. Afriyie stated that MESTI will employ and assign public and private collectors to collect and store plastic trash and encourage household recycling through effective coordination with key stakeholders.
The minister said that efforts to modify public attitudes towards the usage and disposal of plastics will be enhanced in order to promote good waste management and segregation practises.
He emphasised how important it is for all citizens to participate in cleanup efforts and support policies that reduce, reuse, recycle, and recover their garbage.