By Florence Afriyie Mensah, GNA
Kumasi, Nov. 12, GNA – As negotiations continue towards a legally binding international instrument on plastic pollution, Ghana is actively positioning itself to contribute to and benefit from the emerging global framework.
Strengthening national coordination and ensuring that Ghana’s priorities and interests are reflected in the negotiations remain key priorities.
To advance these efforts, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Ghana, in collaboration with the Ghana National Plastic Action Partnership convened a hybrid stakeholder dialogue on Ghana’s Strategic Engagement in the Global Plastics Treaty Negotiations and Circular Economy Transition.
The dialogue was organized under the Global Environment Facility (GEF)-funded Establishing a Circular Economy Framework for the Plastics Sector in Ghana Project, led by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST).
The engagement brought together representatives from government, the private sector, development partners, academia, civil society organizations, and recycling enterprises to reflect on progress in the global plastics treaty negotiations, identify Ghana’s strategic priorities, and explore pathways for preparing national institutions for future implementation of the agreement.
The ongoing negotiations for a global plastics treaty present a unique opportunity for countries to agree on coordinated measures to address plastic pollution across the entire plastics value chain, including production, consumption, waste management, and end-of-life disposal.
For Ghana, the negotiations also offer an opportunity to strengthen national efforts to improve waste management systems, expand recycling infrastructure, encourage responsible consumption and production practices, and accelerate the country’s transition towards a circular economy.
Dr. Abdul-Razak Saeed, Head of the Environment and Climate Change Cluster at UNDP Ghana delivering the opening remarks, emphasised the need for stronger collaboration and national coordination to ensure Ghana was well positioned to respond to emerging obligations and opportunities under the treaty.
“As negotiations continue, Ghana must strengthen national coordination and build a shared understanding of the opportunities and obligations that may emerge.
Together, we can turn plastic pollution into an opportunity for innovation, green jobs and sustainable development.”
Dr. Saeed noted that, while the negotiations were taking place at the international level, preparations for implementation must begin at the national level through strengthened institutions, supportive policies, and strategic partnerships that could drive lasting impact.
Madam Suweibatu Adams, Chief Director of the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, underscored the importance of translating global commitments into tangible national and local actions.
Her remarks highlighted the importance of fostering collaboration among government institutions, industry actors, development partners, civil society organizations, and local communities to develop a shared vision for addressing plastic pollution and advancing a circular economy.
A key focus of the dialogue was the link between the global plastics treaty and Ghana’s broader circular economy ambitions.
Participants explored opportunities to improve plastic collection, sorting and recycling systems, promote sustainable consumption and production practices, and support businesses that are transforming plastic waste into valuable economic resources.
As negotiations towards a global plastics treaty progress, sustained stakeholder engagement, strategic partnerships, and strengthened national coordination will be critical to translating international commitments into practical solutions that reduce plastic pollution, support circular economy growth, create green jobs, and contribute to Ghana’s sustainable development objectives.
GNA
Edited by Kwabia Owusu-Mensah/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Florence Afriyie Mensah
Email: [email protected]