The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced the ban on all polystyrene foam products, popularly known as “Styrofoam” or “Takeaway Packs,” in Ghana, effective 1st January 2027.
According to the EPA, the ban covers all forms of expanded polystyrene foam products used for human and commercial activities.
Which includes “food packaging containers and takeaway packs, disposable cups and plates, foam packs used by restaurants, chop bars and food vendors, ceiling and insulation materials, foam mattresses and bedding materials, and packaging and cushioning materials”.
The EPA, however, exclude EPS products specifically intended for medical, scientific, laboratory, and diagnostic purposes, subject to applicable regulations.
In a statement issued on May 25, 2026, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) wrote, “On 5th June 2025, during the World Environment Day celebration, H.E. President John Dramani Mahama announced the Government’s policy to ban the importation, production, and use of polystyrene (styrofoam) products in Ghana as a critical measure 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 stakcholders 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.
The ban shall apply to all forms of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam products used for human activities and commercial purposes, including, but not limited to:
a. Food packaging containers and takeaway packs
b. Disposable cups and plates e. Foam packs used by restaurants, chop bars, and food vendors
d. Ceiling and insulation materials made from polystyrene foam e. Foam mattresses and bedding materials
f. Packaging and cushioning materials
g. Any other form of polystyrene foam product intended for human use or consumption- related activities
Note: The prohibition shall, however, exclude EPS products specifically intended for medical, scientific, laboratory, and diagnostic purposes, subject to the applicable regulator.
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 requires all manufacturers, importers, distributors, and users of polystyrene foam products to commence transition to safer. reusable. recvclable. and environmentally sustainable alternatives.
The Authority will, over the transition period leading to 1st January 2027, undertake nationwide stakeholder engagement, public education, and technical consultations, 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.
The general public is encouraged to support this national environmental protection measure by adopting sustainable consumption practices and environmentally friendly packaging alternatives”, the statement concluded.
See the post below:
EPA wishes to inform the general public 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‼️‼️‼️ pic.twitter.com/D3Ephuelt3
— Environmental Protection Authority (@EPA_Ghana) May 25, 2026
