The Greater Accra Regional Co-ordinating Council (RCC), in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), convened a high-level stakeholder meeting to address pressing environmental concerns, with a focus on hazardous and electronic waste (e-waste) management in the region.
The meeting, held at the RCC premises, brought together representatives from Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), regulatory agencies, private sector actors, environmental organizations, and other key stakeholders. The initiative aligns with the enforcement of key provisions of the Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124), and the Hazardous, Electronic and Other Wastes (Control and Management) Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2250).
In her opening remarks, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Akweley Ocloo emphasized the urgent need for collective action in tackling the improper disposal of e-waste, which poses severe risks to public health and the environment due to the release of harmful chemicals into the soil, water, and air.
Adding that, “Our region is rapidly urbanizing, and with that growth come significant environmental challenges. It is imperative that we work together to ensure compliance with current hazardous and e-waste management laws, while also exploring innovative and sustainable solutions,”.
Key priority areas highlighted for discussion included:
– Strengthening support for MMDAs in enforcing environmental regulations
– Regulating the activities of scrap dealers and designating proper collection sites
– Addressing environmental offences
– Exploring opportunities for partnerships with local businesses and environmental organizations
Hon. Ocloo, underscored that protecting the environment is not just a legal obligation but a shared moral responsibility. She called on all relevant stakeholders to collaborate and develop practical, long-term strategies to promote a cleaner and more sustainable Greater Accra Region.
“As a Government, we remain committed to strengthening environmental law enforcement, improving waste management infrastructure, and fostering stakeholder engagement to build a resilient environmental protection framework,” she added.
The meeting is expected to yield actionable outcomes and reinforce regional efforts to enhance environmental sustainability and public health in the face of growing urbanization.
Let me know if you’d like to include any direct quotes from participants or a summary of the outcomes once the meeting concludes.