Source: GNA
The Local Government Service Association of Physical Planners (LOGSAP) has called for a fundamental shift in Ghana’s approach to combating plastic pollution by integrating environmental education and waste management initiatives into basic schools. The association believes that fostering a culture of sustainability among young students will be crucial in addressing the country’s growing plastic waste crisis.
Mrs. Gifty Nyarko, the National Interim President of LOGSAP, emphasized the need for a structured, student-led approach to plastic waste management in basic schools. Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) at Odomase in the Sunyani West Municipality, she proposed the introduction of “student-led plastic waste separation projects and greening competitions” to encourage children to actively participate in reducing plastic pollution in their communities.
“Inculcating plastic pollution-free concepts in basic schools is essential in the fight against this menace,” Mrs. Nyarko stated. She stressed that early education on waste segregation, recycling, and sustainable practices would instill lifelong habits that could significantly reduce plastic waste generation.
Holding Plastic Manufacturers Accountable
Beyond school-based initiatives, Mrs. Nyarko called for stricter accountability measures for plastic manufacturing companies and importers. She urged the government to enforce policies that would compel these businesses to invest in plastic waste recycling programs and take responsibility for the environmental impact of their products.
“Plastic pollution is a burden for the nation, and we need effective collaboration to tackle it,” she said. “Manufacturers must be held accountable to ensure they contribute to sustainable waste management solutions.”
As the Head of the Physical Planning Department at the Sunyani West Municipal Assembly and the Sunyani Zonal Secretary of the Ghana Institute of Planners (GIP), Mrs. Nyarko highlighted the severe consequences of plastic pollution on urban infrastructure and development.
“Plastic waste clogs drains, pollutes rivers, and creates unsanitary conditions in growing settlements,” she explained. “This disrupts drainage systems, compromises infrastructure, and ultimately undermines sustainable development.”
She urged fellow physical planners to take a leading role in public education campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of plastic pollution. Additionally, she recommended that households and businesses adopt waste segregation practices and reduce their reliance on single-use plastics.
Mrs. Nyarko concluded her remarks with a passionate appeal for collective action: “Our land is our legacy—let’s protect it together.” She emphasized that while government policies and corporate responsibility are crucial, individual actions—such as reducing plastic consumption and participating in recycling efforts—are equally important.
With Ghana generating over 1.1 million tons of plastic waste annually, the need for immediate and sustained intervention has never been more pressing. LOGSAP’s proposal for school-based environmental programs offers a promising strategy to cultivate a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens.
About LOGSAP: Advocates for Sustainable Urban Development
The Local Government Service Association of Physical Planners (LOGSAP) is a professional body dedicated to promoting sustainable urban planning and environmental management in Ghana. Comprising experts in physical planning, LOGSAP works closely with municipal and district assemblies to ensure that development projects align with environmental sustainability goals.
Key Functions of LOGSAP
- Advocating for eco-friendly urban planning policies
- Promoting waste management and pollution control initiatives
- Collaborating with government agencies and NGOs on sustainability projects
- Providing technical expertise on land use and infrastructure development
Through workshops, policy recommendations, and community engagement, LOGSAP plays a pivotal role in shaping Ghana’s approach to sustainable urbanization.