The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has banned the use of styrofoam products, commonly known as ‘Takeaway packs,’ in the country effective January 1, 2027.
The Authority’s decision was contained in a press statement dated May 25, 2026.
The ban applies to the importation, production, and usage of the products in Ghana.
According to the statement, the announcement follows the government’s decision in June 2025 as part of measures to combat plastic pollution and safeguard the environment.
“Pursuant to this policy announcement, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), wishes to inform the general public, manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, food vendors, hospitality operators, institutions, and all relevant stakeholders that the ban on production, importation, distribution, sale, and use of polystyrene foam products, popularly known as “Styrofoam” or “Takeaway Packs,” in Ghana shall become effective 1st January 2027,” a portion of the statement explained.
The EPA indicated that the ban shall apply to all forms of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam products used for human activities and commercial purposes.
This includes food packaging containers and takeaway packs; disposable cups and plates; foam packs used by restaurants, chop bars, and food vendors; and ceiling and insulation materials made from polystyrene foam.
Also included are foam mattresses and bedding materials, packaging and cushioning materials, as well as any other form of polystyrene foam product intended for human use or consumption-related activities.
However, the prohibition, the EPA said, shall exclude EPS products specifically intended for medical, scientific, laboratory, and diagnostic purposes, subject to applicable regulation.
“This 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.”
In preparation for the implementation of this directive, the Authority stated that all manufacturers, importers, distributors, and users of polystyrene foam products are required to commence transition to safer, reusable, recyclable, and environmentally sustainable alternatives.
The Authority will, over the transition period leading to January 1, 2027, undertake nationwide stakeholder engagement, public education, and technical consultations. This will be done while simultaneously strengthening compliance monitoring, regulatory inspections, and enforcement preparedness to ensure full adherence to this directive.
“The Authority shall collaborate with all relevant institutions, including Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), port authorities, customs officials, and industry regulators to ensure effective nationwide enforcement of the ban upon commencement,” stressed the Authority.
It encouraged Ghanaians to support this national environmental protection measure by adopting sustainable consumption practices and environmentally friendly packaging alternatives.
