The Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI), Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, has announced plans by the government to restrict the importation of certain plastic products鈥攕uch as plastic straws鈥攊n a bid to support Ghana鈥檚 transition toward a circular economy.
Speaking at the Environmental Sustainability Summit held in Accra on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, Dr. Muhammed stated that the government is actively considering policies that will encourage the use of locally produced, environmentally friendly alternatives.
鈥淲e aim to restrict products such as plastic straws while promoting local alternatives,鈥 he said. 鈥淓ntrepreneurs are already producing sustainable options like bamboo straws, cassava-based packaging, and refillable containers.鈥
The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to reduce plastic pollution and protect the environment by supporting the growth of green industries and sustainable consumption.
Ghana is currently facing a significant plastic waste crisis. Annual plastic waste generation has surged from 40,000 tonnes to over 1.1 million tonnes, of which only 9% is recycled. An estimated 50% of this waste remains uncollected, often clogging drains and waterways and posing serious environmental and public health risks.
Dr. Muhammed emphasized the importance of supporting innovation and entrepreneurship in the development of eco-friendly products, adding that the government鈥檚 long-term vision is to create a circular economy where waste is minimized and materials are reused or repurposed.
The proposed import restrictions and promotion of sustainable alternatives align with Ghana鈥檚 broader environmental sustainability goals and commitments under international climate and pollution reduction agreements.