The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced a nationwide ban on the production, importation, distribution, sale and use of polystyrene foam products, widely known as Styrofoam or takeaway packs, effective January 1, 2027.
The move follows a policy declaration made by President John Dramani Mahama during the 2025 World Environment Day celebrations on June 5, where he outlined government plans to phase out Styrofoam products as part of efforts to combat plastic pollution and protect the environment.
In a statement issued on Monday, May 25, the EPA said the ban will cover all expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam products used for commercial and domestic purposes.
Affected items include takeaway food containers, disposable cups and plates, foam packaging used by restaurants, chop bars and food vendors, ceiling and insulation materials, foam mattresses and bedding products, packaging and cushioning materials, as well as other polystyrene foam products linked to human use and consumption-related activities.
However, the Authority clarified that EPS products intended for medical, scientific, laboratory and diagnostic purposes will be exempt from the ban, subject to regulatory approval.
According to the EPA, the policy forms part of broader national efforts aimed at improving environmental sanitation, protecting public health, reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable development.
The Authority explained that the period leading up to the 2027 enforcement date will be used for stakeholder engagement, nationwide public education and technical consultations. It added that compliance monitoring, inspections and enforcement preparations will also be intensified during the transition phase.
Manufacturers, importers, distributors and users of Styrofoam products have therefore been urged to begin transitioning to environmentally friendly, reusable and recyclable alternatives ahead of the implementation date.
The EPA further noted that it will work closely with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), port authorities, customs officials and industry regulators to ensure effective enforcement of the directive.
“The general public is encouraged to support this national environmental protection measure by adopting sustainable consumption practices and environmentally friendly packaging alternatives,” the statement added.
