Kraft paper, biodegradable containers to replace styrofoam as Ghana prepares for 2027 ban

Ghana's takeaway industry is expected to undergo a major shift towards kraft paper, biodegradable containers, and other environmentally friendly packaging options as the country prepares to phase out single-use polystyrene (styrofoam) from January 1, 2027. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) states this transition aims to reduce plastic pollution, protect public health, and promote sustainable alternatives. Hope Smith Lomotey, Director of Human Settlements at the EPA, said the policy is focused on replacing harmful packaging materials with safer alternatives. He stated, "It's not going to affect anybody as such, but it will affect us because we are doing a shift. We are shifting from polystyrene or the single-use styrofoam to an alternative which is environmentally friendly."

Mr. Lomotey explained that the alternatives being promoted are biodegradable and have fewer environmental and health risks compared to styrofoam products. He added, "These alternatives are coming in a better direction. They are environmentally friendly. They are biodegradable. They don't cause some of these health effects that we have enumerated earlier." According to him, some manufacturers and businesses have already started adjusting their operations ahead of the deadline, with expectations that the country will fully transition by 2027. He noted, "Already, most of them are already manufacturing or even using them. Some people have started using it. Manufacturers are shifting gradually."