Government Announces Ban on Styrofoam(Take-Away) Products, Effective January 2027

Government through the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced a nationwide ban on the production, importation, distribution, sale and use of polystyrene foam products, popularly known as “Styrofoam” or takeaway packs, effective January 1, 2027.

According to a statement issued by the EPA, the move follows a policy announcement made by President John Dramani Mahama during the World Environment Day celebration on June 5, 2025.

The EPA said the decision forms part of government efforts to combat plastic pollution, protect public health and safeguard the environment.The ban will apply to all forms of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam products used for commercial and human activities.

These include food packaging containers, disposable cups and plates, takeaway packs used by restaurants and food vendors, ceiling and insulation materials, foam mattresses, and packaging or cushioning materials.

The Authority, however, clarified that EPS products specifically intended for medical, scientific, laboratory and diagnostic purposes will be exempted, subject to applicable regulations.

The EPA has directed manufacturers, importers, distributors and users of polystyrene foam products to begin transitioning to safer, reusable, recyclable and environmentally sustainable alternatives ahead of the implementation date.

“The Authority will, over the transition period leading to 1st January 2027, undertake nationwide stakeholder engagement, public education, and technical consultations,” the statement noted.

It added that compliance monitoring, regulatory inspections and enforcement preparations would also be intensified to ensure full adherence to the directive.

The EPA further disclosed that it would collaborate with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), port authorities, customs officials and industry regulators to ensure effective nationwide enforcement of the ban.

The Authority appealed to the general public to support the initiative by adopting environmentally friendly packaging alternatives and sustainable consumption practices.

The statement was issued by the management of the Environmental Protection Authority under the theme: “Protecting the Environment, Our Collective Responsibility.”