The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Armah Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling plastic pollution, announcing that processes are underway to ban certain single-use plastics, including Styrofoam takeaway packs.
Speaking at the 2026 Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative held on June 5 at West Africa Senior High School under the theme “Forests and Economies,” Mr. Buah said the government’s environmental agenda goes beyond tree planting to include long-term care, monitoring, and protection of planted trees.
He emphasised that Ghana’s environmental strategy encompasses a broad range of interventions beyond reforestation, including marine and coastal conservation efforts.
“We are advancing marine and coastal conservation initiatives, including the operationalisation of Ghana’s marine protected areas to safeguard biodiversity and promote sustainable fisheries,” he stated.
The minister also highlighted the country’s implementation of climate-smart policies under its Nationally Determined Contributions in line with the Paris Agreement. These measures include investments in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, clean cooking solutions, improved waste management systems, and climate adaptation programmes targeting vulnerable communities.
Mr. Buah reiterated the government’s resolve to address plastic waste and sanitation challenges nationwide.
He disclosed that following an announcement by President John Dramani Mahama during the 2025 World Environment Day celebrations, steps are being taken toward banning selected single-use plastics, particularly Styrofoam food containers. According to him, the implementation process is progressing steadily, supported by intensified nationwide public education on waste management, recycling, and responsible consumption.
The minister called for a transition from awareness to sustained action in environmental protection.
“Let us move beyond awareness to action. Let us move beyond planting to nurturing. Let us move beyond short-term interventions to long-term sustainability,” he urged.
On behalf of the government, Mr. Buah expressed appreciation to development partners, traditional leaders, religious bodies, civil society organisations, the private sector, academic institutions, schools, and communities for their continued support in advancing environmental sustainability efforts.