Moving Ghana Beyond Plastics: A Policy Blueprint for a Thriving Plastic Substitutes and Alternatives Industry

Abstract

This report presents a comprehensive, co-created roadmap for transitioning Ghana’s economy and environment away from conventional single-use plastics. Grounded in an inclusive stakeholder workshop held in Accra in October 2024, the report assesses current waste-management challenges—highlighting limited recycling infrastructure, growing urban pollution, and health risks from microplastics—and showcases innovation through case studies such as Coco360’s coconut-coir mulch production. Building on this foundation, it proposes a six-pillar policy framework covering stakeholder networks, economic incentives, regulatory standards and phased bans, public awareness, research and development, and compliance mechanisms. Each pillar articulates clear goals and actionable strategies—ranging from tariff reforms and educational campaigns to R&D funding and enforcement bodies—to establish Ghana as a regional leader in sustainable plastic alternatives and drive long-term environmental, social, and economic benefits.