The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has warned importers, manufacturers, distributors and traders that banned Styrofoam and polystyrene products will be confiscated and destroyed from January 1, 2027, as Ghana prepares to enforce a nationwide ban.

The Chief Executive Officer of the EPA, Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, says the Authority is intensifying public education and preparations to ensure that businesses and consumers understand the new restrictions before the deadline.

She also announced plans to establish a registry by December 2026 to help distributors and consumers identify where they can obtain approved alternatives to Styrofoam products.

EPA to Establish Registry for Approved Alternatives

According to Prof. Browne Klutse, the proposed registry will guide businesses and consumers towards approved alternative packaging materials ahead of the ban.

The initiative is expected to help food vendors, restaurants, retailers and other businesses identify suitable replacement products as they prepare to stop using the affected packaging materials.

The EPA has been encouraging the public to consider alternatives such as paper-based packaging, reusable containers, recyclable materials and biodegradable food packaging.

Traditional options, including plantain leaves where suitable, have also been highlighted as possible alternatives for wrapping and serving food.

EPA Warns Importers and Distributors

Prof. Browne Klutse stressed that enforcement would begin on January 1, 2027, warning that cargo arriving in Ghana with banned polystyrene or Styrofoam products would be confiscated and destroyed.

The warning sends a clear message to importers and distributors to avoid bringing prohibited products into the country as the deadline approaches.

The ban is expected to affect the production, importation, distribution, sale and use of expanded polystyrene foam products covered by the policy.

Businesses that continue dealing in the affected products are therefore being urged to make the necessary changes before the enforcement date.

EPA Staff to Work Through New Year Holiday

The EPA CEO also indicated that staff of the Authority would forgo the New Year holiday to support nationwide enforcement of the ban.

She said the commitment reflects the Authority’s determination to end the use of the prohibited products and strengthen environmental protection across the country.

The EPA has been conducting public education and stakeholder engagements to prepare manufacturers, importers, food vendors and consumers for the transition.

Why Ghana Is Banning Styrofoam Products

The ban forms part of Ghana’s efforts to reduce plastic pollution and improve environmental sanitation.

Discarded Styrofoam products can accumulate in drains, contribute to waterway pollution and create serious waste-management challenges because they do not readily biodegrade.

The EPA is urging businesses and consumers to begin switching to suitable alternatives rather than wait until the enforcement deadline.

With January 1, 2027, approaching, the proposed registry and nationwide enforcement preparations are expected to play important roles in helping Ghana move away from the affected products.

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