Plastic pollution and environmental sustainability is a topic of increasing importance. In recent times, Ghana has been intensifying efforts to tackle plastic waste and reduce plastic consumption, a situation that has become a pressing environmental challenge. In this article, we will explore practical tips and strategies for you to reduce plastic consumption and shift towards a plastic-free lifestyle in Ghana.
Take it as an opportunity to engage with the local community and environment while adopting eco-friendly practices. From reducing single-use plastics to supporting local initiatives, living plastic-free is an achievable and rewarding goal that can make a difference, both in both urban and rural areas of Ghana.
The problem of Widespread Plastic Consumption in Ghana
Plastic pollution in Ghana is a significant issue, particularly in major cities like Accra and Kumasi.
The widespread use of single-use plastics such as shopping bags, bottled water, and food packaging leads to enormous waste, much of which ends up in landfills, gutters, and open spaces.
Such high levels of plastic waste often clogs drainage systems, causing flooding during the rainy season, and poses a threat to wildlife and marine life.
The Ghanaian government has recognized the need for action and has implemented various policies aimed at reducing plastic consumption, including the ban on plastic bags in some regions and an ongoing campaign to reduce plastic bottle use. However, the battle against plastic pollution requires the collective efforts of individuals, businesses, and the community.
How to reduce Plastic Consumption in Ghana
Start with Reducing Single-Use Plastics
The first step towards a plastic-free way of living is reducing the use of single-use plastics. These are items that are used once and discarded, such as plastic bags, bottles, straws, and food wrappers. By making mindful choices, you can significantly reduce your plastic footprint.
Carry Reusable Bags
One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce plastic use is by carrying your own reusable shopping bags. In Ghana, plastic bags are still widely used, but they are becoming increasingly frowned upon, especially in urban centers. Reusable cloth or jute bags are an affordable and practical alternative.
Keep a few bags in your car or backpack to ensure you’re always prepared. Here you can find options of local Ghanaian green markets featuring brands that sell reusable bags.
Opt for Reusable Water Bottles
Bottled water is one of the most common sources of plastic waste in Ghana, particularly in cities where tap water may not be safe to drink. Invest in a high-quality reusable water bottle to carry with you throughout the day. This not only reduces plastic consumption but also saves money in the long run.
Say No to Plastic Straws
Plastic straws are small but problematic when it comes to pollution. If you’re dining out or purchasing beverages from a shop, kindly request that your drink be served without a straw. Alternatively, you can carry a reusable straw made of stainless steel, bamboo, or silicone.
Avoid Packaged Snacks
Many snacks in Ghana are sold in plastic packaging. Consider buying fresh fruits, nuts, or items in bulk, or choose products packaged in cardboard or glass. Local markets often sell fresh produce without plastic packaging, providing a perfect opportunity to support local farmers while reducing plastic waste.
Support Local and Eco-Friendly Products
In addition to reducing single-use plastics, supporting eco-friendly alternatives is an excellent way to live plastic-free. Many Ghanaian businesses and local artisans are embracing sustainable practices, offering plastic-free options that align with the growing global demand for environmental consciousness.
Buy Locally Made Eco-Friendly Products
In Ghana, local artisans often craft products using sustainable materials like bamboo, clay, or palm leaves. These products can replace common plastic items such as kitchenware, storage containers, and shopping bags. By supporting these artisans, you help reduce the demand for plastic while empowering local economies.
For such items you can visit places such as the Accra Art’s Centre, a great place to discover local Ghanaian talents and learn more about the ancestral techniques, materials & traditions.
Get Involved in Plastic Waste Management
Living plastic-free isn’t just about making individual choices; it’s also about engaging with the wider community and supporting waste management initiatives. Ghana has several projects aimed at improving waste disposal and recycling, and it’s very easy to get involved.
Participate in Local Clean-Up Campaigns
Many communities and NGOs in Ghana organize regular clean-up events to address plastic waste, particularly in urban areas and along the coast. Participating in these activities is an excellent way to get involved, meet like-minded individuals, and contribute to the fight against plastic pollution. Some organizations also focus on educating local communities about the importance of waste separation and recycling.
Mondo 4 Africa for example, organises beach clean ups in Ghana you can have a look at.
Support Recycling Initiatives
Recycling infrastructure in Ghana is still developing, but there are several grassroots initiatives aimed at increasing recycling rates. Look for local organizations that are working to collect and recycle plastic waste.
Recycle Up Ghana is an international initiative which thrives to empower the Ghanaian youth that aims at professionalizing and intensifying the environmental education concepts as well as broadening the scale to reach more schools across Ghana.
Work with Local Schools and Communities
In many parts of Ghana, education about plastic pollution is still in its infancy. If you’re passionate about environmental sustainability, consider partnering with local schools or community groups to raise awareness about the importance of reducing plastic waste. Organizing workshops, clean-up events, or educational campaigns can help foster a culture of sustainability.
goTo Class, one of the 4 initiatives of GoTo Initiative, offers workshops with the objective of fostering a culture of sustainability through education.
Adopt Sustainable Practices at Home
Making your home more eco-friendly is another key step toward living a plastic-free life. There are many small changes you can make to reduce plastic use and waste in your daily life.
Compost Organic Waste
Organic waste, such as food scraps, can make up a significant portion of household waste.
Instead of throwing it away and contributing to the ever growing problem of food waste in Ghana, start a composting system to turn it into valuable fertilizer for your garden. This reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and eliminates the need for plastic trash bags.
Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
Many cleaning products come in plastic bottles, but there are numerous eco-friendly options available. You can either buy cleaning products that are packaged in glass or cardboard or make your own using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
Opt for Cloth Diapers and Towels
If you have children, consider using cloth diapers instead of disposable ones. Similarly, using reusable cloth napkins or towels instead of paper products can help reduce plastic waste in your home.
Before we sign off, we invite you to take a look at how architecture can also help in the environmental fight. Check these examples of eco-friendly projects and how sustainable housing is evolving in Ghana.
