By Gloria Amoh
The Regional Coordinator of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, Accra Districts, Seth Adzraku, has stated that Ghanaians should be environmentally conscious during this rainy season.
In an interview on GTV’s breakfast show, he explained that flooding has taken many by surprise, with areas previously unaffected now experiencing significant issues. “The primary reason for this is the improper disposal of garbage into drains and streets, especially during rainfall. People often assume that the rain will carry the waste away, but in reality, it simply moves the problem elsewhere.”
According to him, as rain falls, people discard their garbage into drains and streets, mistakenly believing that the rain will carry it away. Instead, this waste simply relocates, creating blockages and exacerbating flooding in other areas.
He emphasised that, to combat this, environmental consciousness is crucial and every resident must take responsibility for their waste. This means using proper bins or receptacles that are hermetically sealed can prevent flies and rainwater from accessing and accelerating the decomposition of garbage, which otherwise leads to foul smells and unsanitary conditions.
“Accredited contractors should be used for waste disposal, and the community must agree to pay for these services to ensure regular and proper refuse collection,” he added.
Mr Adzraku clarified that Accra is divided into zones, with waste management handled by companies like Zoomlion. Recognising the increased waste challenges during the rainy season, Zoomlion has launched a special program to ensure refuse is collected efficiently. A significant challenge is the lack of available land for new landfills. To address this, Zoomlion, in partnership with the government, is establishing recycling centres across all sixteen regions.
“These centres, like the recently opened ones in the Savannah region, Upper West, and Ho, will play a pivotal role in sustainable waste management,” he mentioned.
He indicated that in Ghana, approximately 80% of waste is organic, but it often gets mixed with plastics and other materials. “This is an opportune moment to start segregating our refuse, and also Zoomlion, in collaboration with the Pentecost Church, has initiated programs to collect and recycle plastics, even purchasing them by weight from residents to encourage participation.
Moreover, reducing waste is necessary. Simple changes, such as using a single carrier bag for all market purchases instead of multiple plastic bags, can significantly cut down on refuse.” He added that, each person generates about 700 kg of waste daily, and it’s essential to ensure that aboboya or tricycle drivers dispose of this waste at designated locations rather than indiscriminately.
“To support these efforts, Zoomlion has built transfer stations at Achimota and Abokobi, with plans to add Mallam soon. These stations facilitate proper waste disposal, ensuring that garbage does not end up clogging drains or littering the environment.”
He explained that building a sustainable community requires collective effort, and each person’s actions contribute to the health of their neighbourhood, town, region, and ultimately, the country. “And so, by taking responsibility for our waste and adopting modern disposal methods, we can mitigate flooding and create a cleaner and healthier environment.”
Lastly, he advised that, outdated practices like burying, digging, or burning refuse at home must be abandoned, as they cause pollution and harm the environment.
“By adopting modern waste management practices, we can help create a healthier environment for all.”
