Ghana to phase out styrofoam products by January 2027
The Environmental Protection Authority has announced a ban on the production, importation, distribution, sale and use of polystyrene foam products in Ghana, with full enforcement set to begin on January 1, 2027.
The directive, issued on Monday, May 25, 2026, follows a policy announcement made by President John Dramani Mahama during the World Environment Day celebration on June 5, 2025.
At the event, the President stated that the government would move to eliminate polystyrene products as part of efforts to tackle plastic pollution and protect the environment.
The ban covers all expanded polystyrene foam products used for commercial and domestic purposes.
These include food packaging containers, takeaway packs, disposable cups and plates, foam packs used by restaurants, chop bars and food vendors, ceiling and insulation materials, foam mattresses and bedding materials, as well as packaging and cushioning materials.
Expanded polystyrene products intended strictly for medical, scientific, laboratory and diagnostic use have been exempted from the directive, subject to regulatory control.
The EPA has directed manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, food vendors, hospitality businesses and institutions to begin moving to reusable, recyclable and environmentally friendly alternatives ahead of the 2027 deadline.
The Authority said it would carry out nationwide stakeholder engagements, public education campaigns and technical consultations during the transition period.
It also stated that compliance monitoring, regulatory inspections and enforcement preparations would be intensified before the ban takes effect.
The EPA added that it would work with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, port authorities, customs officials and industry regulators to support enforcement across the country once the directive comes into force.
Members of the public have also been urged to adopt environmentally friendly packaging options and responsible consumption practices in support of the policy.
