Murtala Muhammed: Achieving a ban on plastics requires widespread agreement

Murtala Muhammed, the Minister-designate for Environment, Science, and Technology, has stressed the need for a careful and deliberate approach to tackling plastic waste in Ghana, emphasizing that banning the importation of plastic bags is not a straightforward solution. He highlighted the importance of engaging in extensive dialogue to address plastic waste management and developing sustainable alternatives before taking any drastic actions such as a ban.

Appearing before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on January 30, Muhammed acknowledged the pressing environmental challenges posed by the indiscriminate disposal of plastics, a growing issue in many parts of the country. However, he cautioned that while banning plastic bags might seem like an immediate fix, it is essential to consider the potential consequences and ensure that the proper alternatives are in place.

“You don’t just impose a ban in response to a problem without considering viable alternatives,” he emphasized. Muhammed noted that a hasty ban on plastic bags could lead to unintended negative outcomes, especially if the alternatives are not well-developed and ready to meet the needs of consumers and businesses. Without these replacements, he argued, the situation could worsen rather than improve.

Instead of rushing to implement a ban, Muhammed proposed a more methodical approach. He called for comprehensive studies to examine the plastic waste issue and identify sustainable solutions. According to him, finding alternatives to plastic, such as biodegradable packaging and reusable containers, should be the priority before any legislative action is taken. Additionally, he stressed the importance of supporting local industries to produce these eco-friendly alternatives, which would reduce reliance on imported plastics and encourage domestic innovation.

“Let’s conduct thorough research to identify viable alternatives and find ways to support our domestic industries in producing reusable and biodegradable packaging,” Muhammed explained. His approach aims not only to reduce plastic waste but also to foster local businesses and contribute to economic growth.

Muhammed pointed to Rwanda as a model for handling plastic waste, highlighting how the country did not rush into banning plastic bags but instead first developed systems to manage the transition. Rwanda introduced alternatives such as biodegradable products and reusable containers, stabilizing the system before enforcing the ban. Muhammed expressed his intention to adopt a similar approach in Ghana, carefully assessing the situation and ensuring that sustainable alternatives are in place before any ban is considered.

By focusing on building a strong foundation for the transition away from plastics, Muhammed aims to create an environmentally sustainable future for Ghana without causing undue hardship for businesses or consumers. He noted that it is essential to recognize the realities of plastic use in daily life and ensure that any proposed solutions are both practical and effective.

Furthermore, Muhammed underscored the importance of education and public awareness in promoting the use of environmentally friendly alternatives. He suggested that the government could play a key role in educating citizens about the harmful effects of plastic waste and the benefits of using sustainable products. This awareness, coupled with the development of alternatives, would encourage widespread adoption of eco-friendly practices.

In conclusion, Murtala Muhammed’s stance on plastic waste management calls for a balanced, research-driven approach that takes into account both environmental sustainability and the practical needs of society. Rather than rushing to implement a ban, he advocates for a comprehensive strategy that includes identifying sustainable alternatives, supporting local industries, and educating the public. By doing so, Ghana can address the plastic waste crisis effectively while fostering innovation and ensuring a smoother transition to a more sustainable future.