Single-use plastic has contributed to flooding, circular economy expert backs EPA styrofoam ban

Derrick Sarfo, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of DercolBags Packaging Limited, backed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) decision to ban single-use polystyrene food containers, arguing that the move is necessary to address plastic pollution and reduce environmental challenges, including flooding. He stated, "EPA is not against plastics. EPA is against plastics that are harmful to our health, especially single-use plastics that are used once and not used anymore, but rather end up in our environment, polluting our marine lives, causing disaster in floods."

Sarfo explained that while plastic waste is not the only cause of flooding in Ghana, its contribution to blocked drainage systems cannot be ignored. He noted, "I wouldn't say single-use plastic is the sole cause of it, but it has contributed immensely to the choked drains that we have around, which often leads to floods." He added that discarded styrofoam containers and other single-use plastics accumulate in drains and waterways, restricting water flow during heavy rains and worsening the impact of floods. Sarfo described the EPA's planned ban as a necessary intervention that prioritises public health and environmental sustainability.