EPA To Seize Banned Polystyrene Products Under New Enforcement Plan

Director of Sustainability and Circular Economy at Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Larry Kote has revealed that the planned ban on polystyrene products from January 1, will also include confiscation of products. 

He said the move is aimed at enforcing the ban as it concludes the legal framework for the implementation of the ban. 

Mr. Kotoe noted in an interview on June 18, that importers have been given enough time ahead of the implementation of the ban on polystyrene products and working to ensure smooth transition. 

He claims that the agency is working to establish the legal framework and procedures required to support the ban and is confident that these procedures will be finished prior to the implementation date.

He also mentioned that confiscation is part of the other measures to be used to implement the ban. 

“Confiscation is one of the measures, among many others, that will be used to ensure compliance,” he said.

Mr. Kotoe also said that his outfit is working closely with the Ghana Customs Service to be able to identify restricted products at the ports once the ban takes effect. 

“We will be communicating with Customs on the list of items we intend to restrict and the timelines for implementation,” he added.

The Director further said EPA is engaging with importers and manufacturers to promote voluntary compliance.

“We are discussing with industry players to ensure compliance so that everyone acts in good faith going forward,” he added.

The planned ban on polystyrene products, according to EPA is part of broader efforts to reduce plastic pollution and promote environmentally-friendly alternatives.