FRESHPPACT, Blue Skies Unveil Policy Blueprint to Drive Ghana’s Shift from Plastics

By Samuel Asamoah 

A comprehensive policy blueprint to accelerate Ghana’s transition from conventional plastics to sustainable alternatives has been unveiled in Accra, marking a significant step in the country’s environmental sustainability agenda.

The initiative, spearheaded by FRESHPPACT in collaboration with Blue Skies and other partners, was formally presented at a closing ceremony in Accra. The framework is described as the first of its kind in West Africa, offering a structured roadmap to reduce reliance on plastic packaging while promoting locally produced, eco-friendly materials.

The policy outlines a strategic transition toward a sustainable materials economy, with emphasis on innovations such as biodegradable cocomulch fibre and organic packaging solutions derived from agricultural waste.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Ebenezer Laryea underscored the urgency of moving beyond conventional waste management approaches, noting that plastic pollution cannot be addressed through recycling alone.

He said Ghana’s recycling rate remains critically low, stressing that a shift away from traditional plastic production and consumption is essential for long-term environmental protection.

“An effort to transition away from conventional plastic products is the correct and sustainable approach to addressing the plastics challenge,” he stated, adding that the blueprint provides a clear pathway for systemic change.

Findings from stakeholder engagements under the FRESHPPACT project further revealed growing concerns over the impact of plastic waste on agriculture, soil health and food systems, reinforcing calls for immediate policy and industry action.

A central component of the initiative is innovation in sustainable materials and circular economy practices. Key interventions highlighted include the conversion of coconut waste into biodegradable packaging, the development of eco-friendly agricultural mulch, and support for local manufacturing of alternative materials.

Project partners say these approaches are expected not only to reduce environmental degradation but also create new economic opportunities, particularly for farmers and rural communities.

Representing Blue Skies, Dorothy Deadoo reaffirmed the company’s commitment to advancing sustainable production systems through partnerships with local farmers and communities.

She indicated that ongoing efforts are focused on scaling environmentally friendly packaging solutions while generating additional income streams within the agricultural value chain.

Meanwhile, the Zoomlion Foundation is leading youth-focused interventions aimed at promoting behavioural change and environmental awareness.

Thomas Narh Korley of the Foundation said school-based outreach and education programmes are being deployed to equip young people with knowledge on plastic pollution and sustainable practices.

“Our role is to disseminate knowledge on plastic pollution and inspire young people to adopt sustainable practices that will shape Ghana’s future,” he said.

Stakeholders at the event emphasized that the policy blueprint reflects a broader national ambition to align science, policy, industry and community action in tackling plastic pollution.

They noted that the initiative positions Ghana as a potential regional leader in sustainable material innovation, with implications for agriculture, industrial development and livelihoods.

The FRESHPPACT framework also serves as a call to action for policymakers, industry players, communities and the youth to collectively drive the transition toward a circular and environmentally responsible economy.

With implementation expected to follow, stakeholders say sustained collaboration and investment will be critical to translating the policy into tangible outcomes and reducing Ghana’s plastic footprint.