Murtala Muhammed, the Minister-designate for Environment, Science and Technology, has emphasized the need for alternative solutions to address Ghana’s plastic waste management challenges. Apexnewsgh reports
Speaking during his vetting on January 30, 2025, Muhammed stressed that a complete ban on plastic bags without viable alternatives could have severe consequences.
Instead, he proposed a comprehensive study to identify sustainable solutions, such as reusable containers and biodegradable packaging. Muhammed cited Rwanda’s approach, where they stabilized their system before implementing a ban, as a model worth emulating.
The Tamale Central MP expressed concern over the indiscriminate disposal of plastics, highlighting the need for a strategic approach to address the issue. He emphasized that the government must support domestic industries in developing innovative packaging solutions.
Muhammed’s stance is backed by a recent UNDP experiment, which showed that Ghanaians are willing to adopt environmentally friendly packaging alternatives. The study found that over half of the respondents were willing to pay a small premium for paper cups instead of plastic bags.
As Ghana grapples with plastic waste management, Muhammed’s call for alternative solutions is a step in the right direction. By exploring sustainable options and supporting domestic industries, Ghana can reduce its plastic footprint and promote a cleaner environment.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
