By Rebecca Ampah
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced a nationwide ban on the production, importation, distribution, sale, and use of polystyrene foam products, popularly known as “Styrofoam” or “takeaway packs,” effective 1st January 2027.
The directive forms part of government efforts to combat plastic pollution, improve environmental sanitation, and protect public health across the country.
According to a statement issued by the EPA on 25th May 2026, the policy follows an announcement made by President John Dramani Mahama during the 2025 World Environment Day celebration, where he outlined government’s commitment to eliminating harmful plastic waste from the environment.
The EPA said the ban will affect all forms of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam products used for commercial and domestic purposes. These include food packaging containers, disposable cups and plates, takeaway packs used by restaurants and chop bars, packaging and cushioning materials, foam mattresses, as well as ceiling and insulation materials made from polystyrene foam.
However, the Authority clarified that EPS products intended for medical, scientific, laboratory, and diagnostic purposes will be exempted from the prohibition, subject to applicable regulations.
“The policy directive forms part of national efforts to protect public health, improve environmental sanitation, reduce plastic pollution, promote sustainable development, and ensure compliance with established environmental standards,” the statement noted.
The EPA is therefore urging manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, food vendors, and users of polystyrene products to begin transitioning to safer, reusable, recyclable, and environmentally sustainable alternatives ahead of the implementation date.
To ensure a smooth transition, the Authority says it will embark on nationwide stakeholder engagements, public education campaigns, and technical consultations over the coming months while strengthening compliance monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.
The EPA also disclosed that it will collaborate with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), customs officials, port authorities, and other regulatory institutions to ensure effective nationwide enforcement once the ban takes effect.
The Authority further called on the general public to support the initiative by adopting environmentally friendly packaging alternatives and sustainable consumption practices.
“Protecting the Environment, Our Collective Responsibility,” the statement concluded.
