By Erica Apeatua Addo, GNA
Tarkwa (W/R), March 30, GNA – The University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Tarkwa, Faculty of Geosciences and Environmental Studies Geological Engineering Department has developed an e-water booth.
The aim of this project was to help reduce single-use plastics and possibly make UMaT the first institution to totally abolish plastics on campus.
The “water ATM”, as some call it, was the first of its kind, aligned directly with the plastic waste campaign of the Environmental and Safety Engineering Department of the University.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in UMaT, Dr. Kofi Adomako-Ansah, the Planning Committee Chairman of the World Water Day Celebration, said the project funded by AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine, was launched during the 2025 World Water Day Celebration.
“Water and Gender” was the theme for this year’s celebration.
He highlighted that the e-water booth was based on three principles: reduce, reuse, and recycle for environmental sustainability.
Dr. Adomako-Ansah said in Ghana they have realized that recycling operations were few, hence the best option in dealing with plastics was to reduce the amounts that were being used in the country.
“This brought about the idea, and so, based on the prototype of the dispensers in the various companies, we thought that we could bring these dispensers together and then set up something like this” he explained.
He, however, reiterated that the first model was strictly for staff of the university, but added that plans were underway to develop more, so everyone would get a share.
The planning committee chairman assured students in the entire university community that arrangements have been made to install some of the e-water booth at selected vantage points on campus.
Additionally, Dr. Adomako-Ansah revealed that the project would be rolled out in other mining sites and some points within their communities, adding, “together, we are building a microcosm of plastic-free society we all envision to have”.
On maintenance, he said, they would have someone in the booth to ensure the place was clean, no breakages, and the instrument was operational.
He added “Interestingly, the first e-water booth has been set closer to the security officers to enable them look after it, while we prepare to have some individuals to manage it”
He acknowledged the main contractors for the project, Urban Pace and Precision Works Engineering Limited for not only installing solar panels but also providing these at discounted prices.
Also, Dr. Adomako-Ansah, thanked So Nice Drinking Water for committing to provide one monthly free supply of water for the project as well as Works and Physical Infrastructure Directorate for supporting and supervising the project.
Professor Richard Kwasi Amankwah, Vice Chancellor of the UMaT, Tarkwa, lectures, officials from AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine, Gold Fields Ghana Limited, Water Resource Commission, and students attended the event.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/George-Ramsey Benamba