The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has emphasized a renewed commitment to work hand-in-hand with Ghanaian youth to drive sustainable environmental solutions, particularly in the areas of plastic waste management, responsible mining, and green entrepreneurship.
This call was made by Caleb Elorm Kadu, Special Assistant to the CEO of the EPA, Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, during the Youth Model Parliament (YMP) National Congress 2025, held on 31st October 2025 at the Ghana-India Kofi Annan ICT Centre in Accra.
The event, which brought together various youth leaders and stakeholders from across the country, was organised by the Youth Empowerment Consortium (YEC).
Speaking on the theme “From Vision to Policy: Equipping Young Leaders to Champion Environmental Sustainability in Ghana”, Kadu stressed that the EPA’s role goes beyond enforcing regulations. He noted that the Authority seeks to open pathways for young people to innovate and create economic value through environmental solutions.
“We are not just regulators; we are their partners,” he said. “We want them to be innovative enough and go through the new environmental acts to see opportunities that exist so they can explore them for their own growth and for the development of their communities.”
Kadu revealed that the EPA has already begun establishing centres dedicated to plastic and e-waste collection and processing as part of a broader agenda to combat flooding, pollution, and ecosystem damage. This initiative, he said, is designed to support youth-led recycling and waste management businesses.
“The EPA has been setting up centres for e-waste and plastic waste to make collection and processing easier. This will significantly help reduce flooding and the environmental issues associated with improper waste disposal,” he noted.
On the contentious debate around plastic bans, Kadu clarified that the EPA is currently not pushing for an immediate ban but adopting a gradual, regulated transition.
“For now, it’s a gradual process. We are engaging various stakeholders to shape a feasible regulation on plastics. The goal is sustainability, not disruption.”
Addressing illegal mining (galamsey), Kadu emphasized that the EPA is not advocating a total ban on mining but rather responsible mining practices that do not destroy land and water bodies.
“Mining contributes to our economy. The EPA is not against mining. We are against illegal and irresponsible mining activities. If you want to mine, get a permit and follow the environmental conditions attached.”
He disclosed that the EPA has recently taken steps to control the production and use of “shanfans”, machines widely used in illegal mining operations, as part of efforts to regulate mining supply chains.
He added that the Authority is partnering with NGOs to restore already devastated lands, with pilot initiatives beginning in the Central Region.
Kadu concluded by urging young people to remain involved beyond dialogue.
“Today we shared ideas. Next time, we will return to assess progress. The future of Ghana’s environment depends on the youth. The EPA is ready to collaborate.”
