Ghana is endowed with abundant natural resources which have played very important roles in the agricultural, industrial, economic and social development efforts of the country. However, as a result of incessant exploitation of these natural resources to meet the legitimate socio-economic aspirations of the people, adequate care has often not been taken to guard against the depletion and mis-management of the resources. Consequently, this process of unsustainable development has caused irreparable damage resulting in deforestation, land degradation, air and water pollution, soil erosion, overgrazing, and destruction of bio-diversity among others. These areas affected constitute the totality of the country’s environmental base. Their damage therefore affects the very foundations of the livelihood of Ghanaians.

Successive governments and people of Ghana have come to realize that the process of democratic governance can only be guaranteed if it is based on a sound socio-economic framework that is environmentally sustainable. The conservation of resources by all Ghanaians is therefore crucial to our survival as a country. Consequently conservation and sustainable use of these environmental resources and their protection depends on attitudinal and behavioral change by all individuals, households and private and public sector institutions. The formulation of the environmental policy is expected to facilitate such change.

Ghana’s first Environmental Policy enacted in 1992 emphasized these tenets. The 1992 Policy was based on a broad vision founded on and directed by respect for all relevant principles and themes of environment and sustainable development.

Since then, it has become obvious that environmental degradation is not only a function of failing world markets and poverty but also of institutional shortcomings at the household, district, regional and national levels.

The 1992 Policy identified a restructured lead agency (The Environmental Protection Agency, EPA) to drive the process towards sustainable development. Almost two decades later, the lead agency has attempted to spearhead the process of change from narrow conservation to sustainable development paradigm. However, the principal challenge confronting the environmental management process in the country is ineffective enforcement of the policies and laws that exist to achieve the desired results. The current policy attempts to restructure and redirect the implementation strategy to achieve the desired results. The policy document is prefaced by a summary of the major environmental challenges facing Ghana and the corresponding management interventions. It is followed by the policy vision, mission, operational principles, strategic goals and objectives, sectoral and cross-sectoral issues. It is concluded by the presentation of policy implementation arrangements.

2.0 SUMMARY OF MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES AND CURRENT MANAGEMENT INTERVENTIONS

2.1 Land Degradation

With a total land area of 238,533sq.km, about 95% of land in Ghana is suitable for agricultural use. Agriculture therefore constitutes the major land use of the country, accounting for 62.9% of the land. The major agricultural uses are: (a) cultivated annual crops, (b) cultivated tree crops, (c) rangeland use/pasture and (d) bush fallow.

Land degradation resulting in declining productivity of the land in the face of mounting population pressure is one of the most serious environmental problems facing the country. Agricultural practices, both the traditional practice of slash and burn, shifting cultivation and modern practice of mechanization have led to declining soil quality. This has resulted in deforestation, accelerated erosion, sub-soil compaction, reduced crop yields, increasing desertifying conditions, particularly in the savannah areas, and destruction of watersheds.

The estimated percentage of total land area of Ghana prone to desertification is 64.97% which is about 165,000km²_.The Upper East and eastern part of the Northern Region face the greatest hazard with an area of about 78,718km² prone to desertification.

Some measures and initiatives put in place to reduce land degradation and other land use cover related problems include the preparation of land use and land cover plans and mapping and environmental information systems of the Natural Resources Management Programme (NRMP) for effective land and biodiversity management; the preparation of a National Soil Fertility Action Plan to arrest decline in soil fertility; and the National Forest Plantation Development Programme (NFPDP) launched in 2001 to plant 20,000 hectares of trees annually. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also published National Action Programme to Combat Drought and Desertification (April 2002).

2.2 Deforestation

Ghana’s forest resources are mainly utilized for production of logs for export, mechanical wood industries, fuel wood extraction, building, charcoal production and agriculture. Within the country, there is not an adequate system for monitoring the rate and extent of deforestation.

There has been marked deterioration of the condition and status of these forests as a result of human-induced interventions including illegal and excessive logging activities, destruction through mining, bushfires and other poor silvicultural management practices. Current estimates show that the country is still experiencing an alarming rate of decline in its forest cover. Out of the 8.3 million ha of high forest that existed at the beginning of the 20^th century a mere 1.6 million of forests remain. This suggests that there is an annual forest cover decline of about 70,000ha which is transformed into other land use forms notably, conversions into croplands (especially cocoa, rubber, coffee, palm, kola, etc.), over-exploitation for timber and fuel wood, mining and, of late, rampant uncontrollable bushfires.

The main cause of deforestation has been the quest for agricultural land, rather than the quest for timber or fuel wood. Bush fires caused mainly by farmers through slash-and-burn agriculture, hunters, palm wine tapers and honey collectors have also contributed to deforestation.

The Forestry Commission since 1970 has been implementing comprehensive forest protection strategy intended to restore the forests, maintain their environmental protection functions as well as to halt the loss of genetic diversity within them. The strategy termed ‘large-grain forest protection’ was to put about 352,000 ha (21 percent) of the forest estate into permanent protection across the forest and savanna zones.

The ancient culture of environmental protection in the form of community-protected areas (CPAs) also called “sacred forest groves” are significant in most communities. Community Protected Areas (CPAs) are patches of traditionally protected primary forests that contain large portion of biodiversity. They are traditionally protected ecosystems and their exploitation is strictly regulated by customary laws, serving as repository of numerous endemic species. The responsibility for their protection is vested in the entire community. Currently, EPA has recorded 145 CPAs in Ghana and their ecological importance is being assessed.

A more recent forest policy and management system such as the Forest and Wildlife Policy 1994 and the National Certification Standards and Criteria, National Forest Plantation Development programme, and currently bidding processes have witnessed effective stakeholder participation and shared benefits. From early 1990s, Ghana’s forest policies have turned from excessive centralization in policy formulation and implementation to a more stakeholder inclusion and shared benefits approach.

Government has responded to the deforestation campaign by promoting the use of liquefied petroleum gas to reduce the use of trees for energy purposes.

2.3 Loss of Bio-diversity

Biological diversity (i.e. genetic species and ecosystem diversities) is an indispensable component of the natural resource base. There is rich biodiversity in different parts of Ghana. These comprise mammals, birds and plants located in forest, mountain, freshwater and marine ecosystems.

Biodiversity is known to provide three core types of services: (a) a source of the raw materials vital for all human activities; (b) a sink for waste and residue generated by human activities; and (c) a means of maintaining essential life support functions by maintaining quality ecosystem health (UNEP 1999, Millennium Ecosystem Assessment 2005). There are direct and indirect values of biological diversity.

By 2004 there were about 249 species of known mammals and 729 bird species within the country. However, about 15 mammals and 8 bird species are threatened. Some of these mammals are the giant forest hog, giant pangolin, leopard, golden cat, bongo and the elephant. The Red colobus monkey and hunting dogs have been declared extinct (Oates et al. 2000) and the birds include the White-breasted guinea fowl, which is now rare.

The changes in the environment with the attendant climate variability, drought and arid conditions are proximate drivers of loss of diversity including deterioration of habitat conditions of wild plants and animals through high temperatures and scanty rainfall. Bushfires have also contributed to the destruction of wild plants and animals in the country. Wild fires are used as tool for hunting by local people and deliberate burning resulted in some species facing risks of extinction.

Rapid loss of biological diversity has also taken place as a result of economic development and urbanization. For example, the construction of the Akosombo Dam led to the inundation of large tracts of land, flora and fauna. Today, plant species such as Gacinia kola, Afromosia and Calamus are very rare. Animal species such as the Red and White – Thighed Colobus and the Diana Monkey, and a number of small antelopes are also on the endangered list.

Over-fishing of rivers, lagoons and the sea has led to a reduction of fish life. The use of small mesh nets, dynamites and poisonous chemicals such as DDT also account for the loss of species.

In a bid to conserve biodiversity, government and development partners are taking concrete steps. The country is party to many international conventions on biodiversity. Some of them are:

· Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, especially as Waterfowl Habitat;

· Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora

· Convention on Biological Diversity

· International Convention for the conservation of Atlantic Tuna

· Convention on the conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals

There are various domestic policies, laws and regulations related to the conservation and use of biodiversity, e.g. the forestry and wildlife policy and the water policy which promotes rational use of water resources, but most of the policies are sector based. The country has designated some areas as protected where biodiversity can flourish. The protected areas consist of six Resource Reserves, two Wildlife Sanctuaries, seven National Parks, one Strict Nature Reserve, six Ramsar Sites, one Zoo, Botanical Gardens and many community-based sanctuaries. The total area protected is 1,104 thousand hectares which is 4.6% of total area of Ghana.

There are various projects in progress aimed at conserving the country’s biodiversity resources. They include:

· Northern Savanna Biodiversity Conservation Project (NSBCP)

· Wildlife Division Support Project (WDSP)

· Protected Areas Development Programme (PAAD)

· National Forestry Development Master Plan (1996-2020)

· National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan

· Guinea Current Large Marine Ecosystems Project

· Natural Resources Management Programme (NRMP)

2.4 Water Pollution

The major sources of water pollution are domestic and municipal wastes, agricultural wastes, industrial wastes and inappropriate use of land. The discharge of the various forms of wastes into water bodies creates major environmental health problems such as diarrhoea, cholera, guinea worm and hook worm; water-hygiene diseases due to inadequate water to maintain personal cleanliness such as scabies and typhoid; and water-habitat diseases such as schistosomaisis, malaria, filariaris, arbovirus, oncoceciasis and trypanosomiasis.

Information on water quality analysis shows marked variation in river water quality for urban to rural settlements. This is particularly so in rivers close to settlements with population above 5000 where records of high faecal contamination (FC) and Biological/Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels have been observed. This is due to the disposal of liquid and solid waste and human excreta directly into water courses. The underlying reason for this is the inadequate urban waste disposal systems.

The Community Water and Sanitation Agency (CWSA) is assisting communities in constructing boreholes and promoting community management or rural and small towns water systems. The African Development Bank (AFDB) has sponsored the provision of safe water in six regions of the country. The provision of safe water in guinea worm endemic communities especially is being accelerated. NGOs are lobbying for increased expenditure of government on water delivery in the country. Awareness creation campaigns are being embarked upon for the protection of watersheds by government organizations such as Environmental Protection Agency and Friends of Rivers and Water Bodies. Impoundments are being created covering an area of more than 7,500 hectares to improve water availability for irrigation, livestock watering, domestic use, construction and other uses.

2.5 Marine and Coastal Degradation

Ghana has a coastline stretching for a distance of approximately 550 km. The marine coastal ecosystems in Ghana are richly endowed with important resources for tourism, fisheries, manufacturing and mineral extraction. The beaches, cliffs, lagoons, wildlife, cultural and historical sites and coastal landscapes also provide immense potential for tourism development.

The marine and coastal areas of Ghana are under considerable pressure as a result of intensive agricultural activities, industrial development, salt production, mining and quarrying. The main sources of pollution in these areas are municipal and industrial effluents, agricultural runoffs which are usually untreated either in the immediate coastal zone or from inland drainage. Migration of people to the coastal areas, because of the industrial activities means high and direct discharges of industrial and human wastes into the coastal environment.

Several measures are being taken to address the problem of coastal erosion to create opportunities for the proper utilization of the coastal and marine resources. They are:

· Direct investments in building of control structures (Keta Sea Defence Project). Coastal defence works aimed at protecting the Keta area from further erosion as well as flooding from the Keta lagoon were initiated in 2000 and completed in early 2004. This has effectively stopped the erosion at Keta and reclaimed land for rehabilitation;

· In areas where erosion is threatening important settlements and infrastructure, a combination of gabions and boulder revetments have been employed to stop the phenomenon, e.g. the Tema beach road and Ada township;

· Mangrove re-planting and planting of other vegetative cover;

· Economic or regulatory incentives, which are in the form of imposition of fines for illegal mining and introduction of sand-winning licensing;

· Educational initiatives on sand winning awareness;

· Institutional or policy reforms in land-use planning and coastal zone management coordination;

· Economic or regulatory incentives (involving legislative or administrative changes for fines for polluting, recycling incentives and subsidies for retrofitting or equipment modernization;

· Land-use and industrial planning agencies and the District/Municipal Metropolitan Assemblies are strengthened to monitor and regulate industries;

· Direct investments in small scale waste collection;

2.6 Mining and Industrial Development

Mining has been a very important industrial activity in the economy of Ghana dating back from the last century when the country was known as the Gold Coast through the independence period. The main minerals mined on a large scale today are gold (mined since the 1980s), diamonds (mined since 1923), bauxite (mined since 1941) and manganese (mined since 1924). Currently, there are about 12 large scale mines operating in the country.

Traditionally, small-scale mining for gold and diamond has also been a major economic activity in the country for centuries. Until recently, the small-scale mining operations were largely illegal and most of the gold and diamond production was smuggled out of the country and hence could not be included in officially quotable statistics. However in 1989, legislation was passed and its implementation has been successful in legalizing some forms of small-scale mining – mainly gold and diamond mining – and normalizing relations between small-scale miners and the government. The main environmental problems associated with the mining industry in the country include land devastation, soil degradation, water and air quality deterioration, noise, solid waste, land subsidence problems, and visual intrusion.

2.7 Urbanization

The rapid population growth rate in Ghana is presently exerting immense pressure on the natural resources, as well as creating waste management problems in the major towns and cities. The environmental problems associated with urban overpopulation in Ghana are those that have direct bearing on human health, such as basic sanitation and disposal of waste, the shortage of essential facilities and disregard for approved land use allocations. Other problems are overcrowding, poor and inadequate transportation facilities.

Urban settlements in Ghana experience the highest housing demand needs which often outstrip housing supply in the country. It is estimated that Ghana needs about 70,000 housing units annually to cope with housing demand. Meanwhile, an estimated accumulated housing delivery deficit of 250,000 has be to cleared in order to reduce housing occupancy rate of 13 to 7 persons.

Besides these housing deficits, the rapidly growing urban areas lack important social services such as access roads, good drinking water, sewage treatment plants and health services. Health delivery systems and other social services are inadequate while most of the existing social service infrastructures are unevenly distributed. For example, government health facilities, which account for 70% of the entire health service delivery system in the country, cater for only an estimated 30 – 40 % of Ghana’s population. Furthermore, most of these health facilities are located in large urban centres, regional and district capitals.

The encroachment on reserved open spaces is a major issue for settlements especially in the urban areas, hence the resulting proliferation of unapproved settlement areas including squatters or slums. Fragile ecosystems have been invaded and agricultural lands have been-over cultivated thereby affecting production and good arable lands are being turned into construction of buildings and roads. Cost of housing is a big problem in the large towns and cities and has become an excuse for settlements in unapproved environments. The expansion of the economy in aspects of micro enterprise activities have also resulted in the erection of structures that cater for trade, businesses and residential needs of the owners.

Within the past decade, a number of policies and programmes to tackle the needs of the rural and urban areas have been initiated. For example, the provision of electricity has improved tremendously as the percentage of the rural population with access to electricity rose from 8.7 percent in 1992 to 17.6 percent in 1999. Also, there have been notable successes in areas of privatization and cost recovery measures for the provision and maintenance of selected urban services such as water and waste management.

2.8 Environmental Health

A direct relationship exists between the biophysical environment and human health. Pollution of air is known to be an important source of respiratory tract infections whilst polluted water is a source of water-borne diseases. Slowing of the flow of certain rivers for example as in the lower Volta area has resulted in harbouring the hosts of bilharzias, and river blindness. Research has established that the health status of a community is a function of the environment of the locality. In Ghana, environmental sanitation and general improvement in environmental management is gaining wider recognition among policy makers.

Rural areas and fragile urban slums with high incidence of poverty suffer most from environmental degradation and hazards, consequently these are the centres of most communicable diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS and STDs, buruli ulcer and guinea worm infestation. Water-related diseases such as diarrhoea and typhoid are also of great importance.

A lot of training and public education is in progress to strengthen surveillance and response as well as identify the early stages of these communicable diseases before they advance to latter stages. Inter-sectoral networking will be important in managing the diseases and the programme being embarked upon by the University of Ghana Volta Basin Research Project and similar models will have to be introduced in other areas of the country.

3.0 EMERGING ISSUES

These are environment-related issues that have assumed prominence following the adoption of the 1992 policy. They now constitute the body of the environmental challenges in Ghana.

3.1 Climate Change

Ghana believes that although the issue of climate change is a global problem, which therefore demands a global solution, the consequences of the phenomenon will affect the lives of its citizens either directly or indirectly. Ghana therefore, signed the United Nation’s Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 1992 and ratified the same in September 6, 1995. As party to the Convention, Ghana has participated in most of the activities designed to enhance capacity of members to meet their commitments under the Convention.

Detailed studies have been carried out on measures to abate climate change through forestry and land use, using the Comprehensive Mitigation Analysis Process (COMP) model as an analytical tool. The base year was 1994, and 2020, the end of the current National Development Planning Framework, as the end of the analytical period. There are however opportunities to expand this for extended periods.

The examination of environmentally sound technology as a means of averting the threat of the climate change in Ghana was an initiative by UNFCCC. Ghana has therefore, in fulfillment of the above relevant decisions of the COP of the UNFCCC, prepared a needs assessment report. There is enough scientific evidence to prove that the potential negative impacts of climate change are immense, and Ghana is particularly vulnerable due to lack of capacity to undertake adaptive measures to address environmental problems and socio-economic costs of climate change. These include climate change associated health problems, climate induced disruption of agricultural systems, flooding of coastal areas which are already undergoing erosion and low operating water level of the major hydro-generating dam in the country. Apart from fulfilling Ghana’s commitment to the UNFCCC, the preparation of the technology needs and needs assessment report emphasizes Ghana’s preparedness to join efforts with the global community to avert the climate change threat.

Ghana was assisted by the Climate Technology Initiative (CTI) of the OECD and has put together a report. The report listed a number of desired technologies, which have been prioritized and further developed into a Technology Transfer and Acquisition Plan (TAAP). Within the TAAP three priority technologies have been selected based upon national set of criteria. The three priority technologies selected are:

a. Energy Efficient Lighting using Compact Florescent Lamps (CFL)

b. Industrial Energy Efficiency

c. Landfill Methane Gas Recovery

The technology needs assessment (TNA) report is intended to specifically highlight the nation’s climate change relevant technological requirements and also give some indication as to the efforts the country is making towards sustainable development. Moreover, it emphasizes the support Ghana needs if she is to contribute meaningfully towards finding solutions to the global problem of climate change.

3.2 Natural Disasters and the Environment

Ghana is a relatively stable region and major earthquakes are therefore rare. The Accra District and some coastal areas have previously experienced earthquakes and minor tremors. The most severe of these occurred close to 70 years ago. The shock lasted for 20-30 seconds. The intensity of the shock was greatest between Accra and Fete, particularly around Nyanyanu.

Ghana rarely experiences severe droughts. The period 1968-1973 is recorded in the sub-region as bizarre as severe drought and desiccating conditions in the Sahelian belt (Mali, Chad, Burkina Faso, Mauritania) and in the northern part of Ghana killed an estimated 250,000 people and millions of wild and domestic animals. In 1982/83 Ghana experienced the worst drought ever. Lack of rains, severe desiccating conditions culminating in bushfires destroyed forests, cocoa farms, wildlife reserves and farms and brought a lot of hardships on Ghanaians. The effects of climate change, de-vegetation and other anthropological factors are acting in concert to move the Sahara desert southwards.

A major activity in reversing drought-linked desertification is the establishment of permanent and temporary vegetative cover on the land. Considering that most economic activities in Ghana are land-based, community participation in all activities designed to combat desertification is critical to the achievement of the desired impact.

In Ghana, the frequency and the devastating effects of floods have become annual events felt mostly in Accra. Relatively minor flooding events have been recorded in Kumasi, Tamale and Sekondi-Takoradi. In 2010 for example, there was a heavy downpour in Accra that resulted in the flooding of several parts of the city; twenty-four (24) people lost their lives and property was destroyed. The Odaw River is heavily silted and the Korle Lagoon is perpetually chocked due to the large amount of garbage that is thrown into the Odaw. The bye-law restricting the construction of structures minimum thirty metres (30m) away from the banks of streams is not being strictly enforced. The basin therefore over flows its banks any time there is a heavy downpour.

The Geological Survey Department (GSD) has installed seismological stations at Weija, Shai Hills, Kukurantumi and in Accra to record seismic activities such as tremors and quakes. These records assist experts to forecast on-coming seismic events. The National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), in collaborating with the GSD has organized various educational programmes to create awareness among the general public about the environmental effects of earthquakes and what to do to reduce loss of human life and property. Under the auspices of NADMO, a new building code is being developed that will take into account the potential of an earthquake event occurring and to reinforce structures and make them resistant to the impacts of the quakes.

The following activities have been initiated to manage natural disasters:

· Sustainable management and conservation of natural resources per government and NGO-led programmes to protect forest reserves and promote tree planting have been launched

· Integrated watershed management approach for the preparation and implementation of plans to combat desertification in Ghana is in place.

· The Korle-Lagoon Ecosystem Restoration Project is aimed at constructing a wider and proper drainage channel for the Odaw River and desilting the Korle Lagoon to allow free flow of water into the sea.

· City authorities have realized the need to enforce the bye-laws on building structures and residential facilities in floodplains, waterways, wetland environment, etc.

· Several of the basins are being desilted and proper drains constructed on them to allow free flow of water in them to the sea.

3.3 Urban Noise

Noise control and enforcement of appropriate noise levels at various places have become a major environmental concern particularly in urban settlements in Ghana. The main sources of noise pollution include the following:

- motor vehicles and traffic, particularly from diesel operated vehicles and machines;

- unnecessary blowing of sirens and horns;

- noise generated from traders, hawkers and commercial activities at lorry parks and markets;

Other sources of noise pollution are textile mills, weaving plants, sawmills, flour mills and activities such as blasting in the mines, quarries and printing houses.

Noise produced at entertainment and social gatherings such as churches, mosques, funerals and parties has become a great source of concern in many residential areas. Machinery such as generators, corn mills, musical instruments at shops and used by itinerant vendors do generate noise above permissible and acceptable levels.

The EPA has produced guidelines indicating the permissible ambient noise levels for the country. The guidelines describe the areas (zones) and the permissible noise levels during the day and at night. The areas described include residential, educational, commercial and industrial, places of entertainment, public assembly or worship.

The guidelines also include decibel rating of various sounds as follows: extremely loud sounds – 110-180, very loud – 80-100, moderately loud – 50-70, quiet – 30-40, very quiet 10-20.

The EPA has set ambient noise level guidelines but statistics available indicate that noise is still a nuisance in human settlements because the enforcement process has not been effective due to the inability of Metropolitan/Municipal and District Assemblies to play their role.

3.4 Oil and Gas Industry (Petroleum Exploration)

Ghana’s total energy supply has to grow significantly to facilitate the country’s development agenda. The vision of the energy sector is to develop an “Energy Economy” to secure a reliable supply of high quality energy services for all sectors of the Ghanaian economy and also to become a major exporter of oil and power by 2012 and 2015 respectively.

In July 2007 the Ghana National Petroleum Company (GNPC) and its partners discovered oil in commercial quantities in the offshore basin of the Western Region of Ghana. The find has estimated reserves of oil at about 800 million with an upside estimate of 3 billion barrels. The field has substantial associated natural gas reserves.

In addition to the Jubilee field, there have been subsequent discoveries in the area and exploration activities are being intensified elsewhere in the country.

With the prospect of becoming a major oil and gas producing country, the following areas of concern have been identified among others:

· pollution of air, water and land

· oil spills at sea

· spillage of ballast water

· transportation concerns – pipelines, tankers

· costal ecosystem destruction

· international relations

· local capacity to manage oil and gas

Major national developments related to the oil and gas sector include the following:

- Establishment of GNPC

- EPA guidelines on petroleum exploration (EIA, ESIA, SEA)

- Petroleum Exploration Bill

- Bill before Parliament to manage oil resources and income

In addition to the above, Ghana has signed a co-operation agreement with Norway focusing on potentials for future cooperation concerning resource, revenue and environmental management issues in the petroleum sector. One of the results of the agreement is the “Strengthening Environmental Governance of the Oil and Gas Sector in Ghana” programme. This constitutes a multi-year programme for technical assistance and capacity building support from Norwegian to Ghanaian authorities involved in environmental governance of the petroleum sector.

The main references for the development and planning of the Programme has been the National Energy Policy, whose goal is “to ensure that energy is produced and utilized in an environmentally sound manner” and the commitment to “manage Ghana’s oil and gas resource endowment to ensure the sustainability of the reserves and of the environment.”

The Programme is also meant to reflect provision regarding environmental management in the Constitution of the 4^th Republic, the National Environmental Policy (1992) the National Environmental Plan (1991) and the Environmental Protection Agency Act (1994).

3.5 Invasive Alien Species

Invasive Alien Species (IAS) refers to plants, animals and micro-organisms introduced to ecosystems outside their natural habitat. IAS is a global threat to the conservation of biological diversity through their proliferation and spread, displacing or killing native flora and fauna and affecting ecosystem services. The environmental costs of invasive species can be staggering. These species typically have high reproductive rates, disperse easily and can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions. Often, they lack predators in their new environments.

Over 250 species of exotic plants have become naturalized in Ghana, and over 20 of these can be categorized as invasive. These include the water weeds, Eichoruiacrasippes, Salivina molesta, Pistia strategies and Azollo filiculoides.

They are known to have occurred on the Volta Lake and Tano River Basin as a result of infestation of water hyacinth (Eichornia crasippes). Major terrestrial invasives include Chromolena odorata, Broussonetia pappyrifera and Leucaena leucophala. These colonize disturbed forest and savanna woodlounds throughout the country where they prevent reservation and displace indigenous species. The Afram Headwaters Forest Reserve is threatened by invasion of Broussonetia and chromolaena.

There are other faunal invasive species which pose environmental problems to agriculture and public health. These include fire ants, spiraling whitefly, giant land snails, cassava mealy bug, and larger grain borer among others.

The government has over the years, through programmes, policies and legislative instruments sought to protect the environment from IAS. There are many institutions that play different roles in the prevention of IAS. While the number of institutions and existing legislations seems adequate, the uncoordinated nature of the policies and law’s creates conflicts and leaves gaps in the control of IAS.

Some of the projects implemented or being implemented include the following:

· Biocontrol of Chromolaena odorata, implemented by the Crop Research Institute of CSIR, Kumasi and funded by the Government of Ghana.

· Integrated Mycoherbicide Programme for Water Hyacinth Control in Africa (IMPECCA), Implemented by CAB International and funded by DANIDA

· Waterweed management in West Africa – implemented by EPA and FAO in Ghana.

· Integrated management of the Volta River Basin implemented by EPA and funded by GEF

· Integrated management of invasive aquatic weeds in West Africa (IMIAW) implemented by EPA and funded by ADF. This involves seven other ECOWAS member states.

3.6 Tourism and Environment

Since the late 1980s, tourism has received considerable attention in the economic development strategy of Ghana. Currently, it ranks as the third largest foreign exchange earner, after cocoa and mineral exports. Specifically, Government has identified tourism as a priority area in the overall developmental programme of the economy and one of the areas for diversifying and expanding the base for foreign earnings.

The first major step in the formal development of tourism in Ghana was the evaluation of the country’s resources in 1970 (Obuam Committee, 1972). The objective was to catalogue and classify the potential tourism resources for a 5-year development plan. Based on this study as well as others, there was the general consensus that Ghana had the potential to develop a viable tourism industry, however, there was the need to formulate a more comprehensive national tourism development plan to guide long-term sustainable development.

The national development policies and objectives establish the framework for development planning including planning for tourism. These development policies and objectives are outlined in Ghana – Vision 2020. This vision seeks over the long term to make Ghana a middle-income country. It is also to make Ghana attain a sustainable economic growth rate of eight (8) percent annually.

Vision 2020 identifies tourism as providing an important opportunity for economic development based on the natural, historic and cultural resources of the country. The National Tourism Development Policy and Structure Plan provide a basis for developing integrated and sustainable tourism over the long term in Ghana.

The tourism policy goal of Ghana is to develop tourism as a leading socio-economic sector of the country and good quality, internationally competitive tourist destination, within the framework of maintaining its permanent sustainability. The following among others is the basis of the policy framework:

· Tourism will be developed as one of the major socio-economic sectors of the country, generating substantial foreign exchange earnings, income, employment, and government revenues and appreciably raising the living standards of the Ghanaian people equitably. Tourism will be used as a means to strengthen the economies of both the urban and the rural areas.

· In addition to direct benefits accruing from tourism, it will serve as a catalyst for the expansion of other sectors of the economy, and help pay for improvement of the country’s infrastructure.

· Tourism must be developed in a manner that helps achieve preservation of the country’s cultural, historical, and environmental heritage. It thus serves as a means to present Ghana’s unique cultural and historical heritage to the international community and to educate Ghanaians about their own heritage.

3.6.1 The Tourism Sector and the Environment

Environmental impacts arise through the construction and operation of tourists’ facilities or service and from the activities of tourists themselves. They may be short, long term, positive, negative, regional, national and even global. This diversity in the range and type of impact partly reflects the characteristics of the tourism industry and makes the comprehensive appraisal of the environmental consequences of tourism development problematic. Major difficulties usually arise in the assessment of tourism impacts on the environment. The negative impacts of the tourism sector include the following:

3.6.1.1 Noise

Noise has both physiological and psychological effects on humans depending on its intensity, duration, frequency distribution, intermittent and significance.

There are two main sources of noise that will arise. These are the operation of vehicles coming to and leaving the reception centre and noise as a result of construction activity. Minimal and intermittent noise would be generated during construction phases of reception areas, guest houses, etc. These noise levels will however not have devastating effects on the workers, society and the environment in general.

3.6.1.2 Solid Waste Generation

All human activity would produce solid waste. Littering of the landscape with polyethylene bags, and waste packaging materials, finished canned and boxed take away foods make the environment unattractive and perhaps a health hazard.

3.6.1.3 Waste Water Management

Pollution of surface and ground water resources resulting from improper disposal of waste water in the community could adversely affect tourist facilities and attractions.

3.6.1.4 Ambient Air Quality (Dust)

The main impact on air quality (dust) will be experienced during the construction and completion of the tourist reception areas. Particulate matter (dust) will increase during this phase, particularly in the dry months of the year between December and March. However, the increase in particulate matter will decrease gradually over the construction period. Long term exposure of humans to dusts can lead to a wide variety of respiratory diseases, including pulmonary fibrosis, obstructive lung disease, allergy and lung cancer.

The Ghana Tourist Board, the lead agency, has developed regulations which control the tourist industry in the country. The Board has established offices in the regions which oversee the activities of the tourism facility providers, to ensure quality and manage the resources which constitute the tourist attractions.

3.7 The Transport Sector and the Environment

The main components of the transport sector in Ghana are road, air and water (lake) transport. Road transport is by far the dominant carrier of freight and passengers in Ghana’s land transport system. In 2000, the country had an extensive road network of about 42,000 kilometres and this had increased to 60,000 kilometres by the end of 2005.

Ghana’s transport system in general lacks comprehensive measures for minimizing environmental damage. Noise and dust are not given much attention; measures to control construction damage are weak; and safeguards against hazardous spills are not well enforced. Right-of-way encroachment in rural and urban areas is causing congestion, raising the risk of accidents and leading to costly relocation and resettlement.

Vehicular congestion in our urban areas, especially Accra-Tema and Kumasi is causing concern. The make and use of vehicles imported into the country needs more rigid control. High pollution levels are being generated by old vehicles which are poorly maintained. Very little has been done to reduce vehicular pollution in our cities. As a result, a substantial percentage of carbon monoxide, lead, hydrocarbons, nitrous oxides and particulate matter are emitted into the atmosphere posing considerable health hazards. Noise pollution generated from these vehicles cannot go without being mentioned.

The location of airports in Accra and Kumasi is another source of worry. These airports are now surrounded by residential areas and noise pollution and potential for accidents are of major concern. The increasing use of the Volta Lake as a medium of transport has also resulted in regular, at times very disastrous boat accidents. The resultant loss of lives and oil pollution caused by these constitute environmental concerns in the country.

The rising demand for transport is also harming the environment and people’s health. Any policy aimed at correcting environmental problems should involve environment impact assessments and mitigation measures based on cost-benefit analysis. To address these problems, Ghana must first enforce existing laws and regulations, then revise, formulate and consolidate measures to minimize environmental damage done during construction and use of transport infrastructure. At the same time, the costs and benefits of expensive environmental measures must be balanced. The impact of infrastructure construction and operation can be improved gradually by including environmental impact assessments (EIAs) in design stages. Design should consider energy efficiency and environmentally friendly options, the suitability for transport of hazardous materials, and means for reducing noise and pollution.

PART B

NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

4.0 INTRODUCTION

Ghana’s participation in the Stockholm Conference in 1972 signified the beginning of the country’s desire and willingness to make concerted and conscious efforts at the management of its environment. At the Earth Summit in Rio twenty years later, Ghana and the world moved closer to the objective of living in harmony with our environment by signing the Rio Conventions. By signing the agreements, Ghana and the world at large affirmed the reality and truth that development and environmental issues and goals are one. Environmental challenges have increased since Rio, and problems in the critical areas of pollution, urban congestion, loss of biodiversity and climate change have worsened. Since these concerns are of public goods nature, the Government of Ghana has played its due role in the management of these environmental concerns.

The 1992 Constitution was adopted just about the time the 1992 Environmental Policy was formulated. The new Constitution has made government accountable to the people of Ghana. It identifies the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary as the different arms of government within the framework of cooperative governance. The starting point for developing this new environmental policy for Ghana, therefore, is the Constitution from which derives the powers of government and the Ghanaian population at large.

Ghanaians are entitled to an environment that is not harmful to their health and well-being and are enjoined to have the environment protected for the benefit of present and future generations through reasonable legislative and administrative measures. In order to achieve this and to meet the development needs of our people, sustainable development is essential. Sustainable development requires an integrated and coordinated environmental management policy. In formulating a new environmental policy for Ghana therefore, all stakeholders must be involved throughout the process at the local, district, regional and national levels.

A national consultation process is therefore required for that purpose. The Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST) and the Environmental Protection Agency are responsible for coordinating that process. The final Policy should not be considered as an instrument of change but as a result of the change process.

4.1 VISION

The new vision for environmental management is based on an integrated and holistic management system for the environment in Ghana. It is aimed at sustainable development now and in the future. The vision for the environmental policy, therefore, is: “To manage the environment to sustain society at large.”

The policy seeks to unite Ghanaians in working toward a society where all residents of the country have access to sufficient and wholesome food, clean air and water, decent housing and other necessities of life. That will further enable them to live in a fulfilling spiritual, cultural and physical harmony with their natural surroundings.

This new paradigm of sustainable development based on integrated and coordinated environmental management will ensure:

citizens’ quality of life and their living and working environments
equal access to land and other natural resources
more efficient use of social, cultural and natural resources
public participation and environmental governance

4.2 MISSION STATEMENT

The goal of the Government of Ghana is to improve upon the foundations laid by the previous policy and activities implemented under the Ghana Environmental Action Plan. The goal is based on integrated and holistic environmental management practices and processes over the next ten years. In this regard, government is committed to:

utilize all available resources at its disposal in the most effective way to achieve the aims of the policy
promote the integration and coordination of its approach to environmental management among all the MDEs to facilitate the enforcement of people’s environmental rights.

The Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the official government institution shall be responsible for ensuring the integrated and coordinated implementation of the policy and the associated activities during the stipulated period. EPA in particular shall ensure that:

people’s environmental rights are enforced
the challenges of environmental sustainability are adequately addressed
a follow-up on the priorities and goals of government policy are implemented

The EPA shall further undertake to:

promote better understanding of sustainable development in all spheres of national endeavour and what it takes to achieve it
play a lead role in securing the implementation of integrated, equitable, participatory and effective environmental management practices
pursue constant improvement in government’s commitment to environmental sustainability
develop mechanisms to engage effectively in international agreements and cooperation in environmental governance
monitor and report biannually on the state of the environment

4.3 POLICY STATEMENT

Government’s support for the environment has grown during the past 30 years and the general performance of the environment has considerably improved. At the same time, environmental challenges have increased, and emerging problems in the critical areas of pollution, urban congestion, loss of plant and animal species and climate change have worsened. These concerns must be given increased operational priority, in recognition that long-term economic growth, social transformation, poverty reduction and environmental sustainability are inter-linked and must therefore constitute the foundations of government’s environmental policy.

The policy therefore “takes account of the national environmental priorities while sufficient attention is also given to longer-run sustainability concerns. Government ownership of the national environmental objectives is indeed important, but ministries, departments and agencies, as well as other institutions including non-governmental organizations must buy into the policy implementation process to ensure overall success.”

The policy aims at:

reversing the current insufficient commitment to environmental objectives, policies and interventions
reversing rapid population growth, economic decline, persisting poverty, poor governance and institutional weaknesses and failures
improving quality and flow of information
creating an understanding of the nature and causes of environmental problems
establishing a clear definition of the national environmental agenda and its links to economic growth and poverty reduction and weak legal, regulatory, financial, technical, human and institutional capacity
mainstreaming international relations into the national environmental agenda
improving the current environmental quality control programme by which prior environmental impact assessments of all new investments that would be deemed to affect the quality of the environment are undertaken.
taking appropriate measures, irrespective of existing levels of environmental pollution and extent of degradation to control pollution and the importation and use of potentially toxic chemicals.
taking appropriate measures to protect critical ecosystems, including the flora and fauna they contain against destructive practices.
Improving lateral relations among MDAS and other key actors to improve coordination

4.4 OPERATIONAL PRINCIPLES

The National Environmental Policy shall be implemented on the basis of principles for environmental management. These principles are the fundamental premises which will be employed by government to direct actions including decision making, legislation, regulation and enforcement.

4.4.1 Accountability

Government is accountable for policy formulation, project implementation, monitoring compliance and enforcement. In this regard, government will allocate roles to selected institutions in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana.

4.4.2 Allocation of Functions and Coordination

Government of Ghana will allocate functions within the framework of the Constitution to institutions and other arms of government that can most effectively achieve the objectives of the particular function within the context of the environmental policy. Furthermore, environmental concerns affect all aspects of human endeavour and must be integrated into the work of all government institutions.

This requires intergovernmental harmonization of policies, legislation, monitoring, regulation and other environmental functions in accordance with the requirements of this policy.

4.4.3 Capacity Building and Education

Every Ghanaian must have the opportunity to develop the understanding, skills and capacity to effectively participate in the process of achieving the sustainable development goals.

4.4.4 Conflict of Interest

Any actual or potential conflicts of interest between responsibilities for resource exploitation, and any responsibilities or powers affecting environmental quality or impact management, must be resolved with despatch. Solutions to such conflicts of interest must ensure effective implementation of the environmental policy and make provision for the role of the lead institution in maintaining the norms and standards.

4.4.5 Due Process

Due process must be applied in all environmental management activities. This includes adherence to the provisions in the Constitution with respect to just administrative regulations and public participation in environmental governance.

4.4.6 Equity

There should be equitable access to all environmental resources, benefits and services to meet basic needs in order to ensure human well being. Each generation of Ghanaians has the duty to avoid impairing the ability of successive generations to ensure their well being.

4.4.7 Environmental Justice

In order to ensure environmental justice, government must integrate environmental considerations with social, political and economic justice in addressing the needs and rights of all communities, sectors and individuals.

In this regard, policy, legal and institutional framework must:

- redress past and present environmental injustice

- address the need to protect and create employment

- recognize the right of workers to refuse work that is injurious to human health or the environment

- recognize the right of every citizen to expose any environmental or health hazard without fear

- uphold the equitable representation and participation of the poor and the marginalized in society

4.4.8 Global and International Cooperation

The Government of Ghana must recognize its responsibilities for regional, African and global environmental issues and uphold the principles and regulations contained in international agreements and conventions, especially those pertaining to the ECOWAS protocols and agreements.

4.4.9 Good Governance

Good governance is a function of mutual trust and reciprocal relations between government and the citizens. This must be based on the fulfillment of constitutional, legislative judicial and executive functions, the acceptance of authority, probity, transparency and accountability.

Successive democratically elected governments in Ghana are the legitimate representatives of the people. In the pursuit of good governance, therefore, governments must honour their obligations to give effect to peoples’ environmental rights enshrined in of the Constitution. This includes:

taking responsibility for developing and implementing environmental policy
exercising the legal authority to take decisions and carry out actions vested in government by the supreme law of the country
acting in accordance with the basic values and principles governing public administration contained in the Constitution.
being accountable to the Ghanaian citizenry
responding to public needs by encouraging public participation in environmental governance
monitoring and regulating actions that impact on the environment

4.4.10 Inclusivity

Environmental management processes must take into consideration the interests, needs and values of all interested and affected parties in decision making in order to achieve sustainable development. This recognition should cover all forms of knowledge including traditional and conventional knowledge systems.

4.4.11 Integration

There is a close relationship between and among all elements of the environment and management must recognize this relationship. Mainstreaming environmental concerns in all areas of human endeavour is central to the achievement of sustainable development. This integration must be done at policy, planning, programme and project levels.

4.4.12 Open Information

Every Ghanaian must have access to relevant information to enable them to:

protect the environment
protect their health and well-being
participate effectively in environmental governance
comply with environmental policy, legislation and regulation

4.4.13 Precaution

Government must anticipate problems and prevent negative and undesirable impacts on the environment and on people’s environmental rights. In the process, management tools such as environmental assessment must be applied and enforced.

4.4.14 Polluter Pays

Those responsible for environmental damage must be held liable for the repair caused both to the physical and human environments. They must also be held responsible for the costs of preventive measures to reduce or prevent further pollution and environmental damage.

4.4.15 Waste Management

Management of waste must minimize and avoid the creation of waste at source and particular attention should be given to toxic and hazardous wastes. Government, municipal and district administrations must practise recycling, separation at source, waste-to-energy practices and safe disposal of unavoidable waste.

4.5 STRATEGIC GOALS & OBJECTIVES

This section provides a brief description of the priorities for achieving the vision and the means of focusing government actions on the environment over the next decade. These priorities are expressed in the form of broad strategic goals and supporting objectives.

4.5.1 Goals

The goals indicate the direction government will follow in meeting the ultimate target of sustainable development and an integrated holistic system of environmental management. The aim is to move the country from the previous situation when development was undertaken with little consideration for the environment to a stage when the economy will be in balance with ecological processes.

4.5.2 Objectives

These can best be achieved through the recognition that environmental concerns cut across all sectors of human endeavour. Therefore the policy objectives must address the activities of all sectors of the economy, and the cooperation and commitment of all these sectors is required for effective implementation.

4.5.3 Strategic Goals

In its drive to achieve the over-aching goal of sustainable development, GOG will emphasize the following strategic goals. It must be emphasized that these goals are interdependent and all must be addressed to achieve the desired results since all the environmental concerns cut across various sectors and functions. The goals are followed by corresponding objectives.

4.5.3.1 Strategic Goal 1: Effective Institutional and Legislative Framework

Government will create an effective, adequately resourced and harmonized institutional framework, centred around the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) and an integrated legislative system, and improve institutional capacity in both areas.

Objective:

From the point of view of the institutional framework, Government shall:

conduct, audit and review existing skills, capacities, functions and deployment of resources in the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)as the lead institution
investigate institutional options, including the establishment of new institutions to cover grey areas
the coordinating role of the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST), EPA and NDPC shall be clearly defined, to establish appropriate mechanisms and structures
charge the MEST and EPA with the development of subsidiary policies within the framework of this national policy
empower the MEST, EPA and NDPC to integrate and coordinate all environmental management functions within and between all MDAs
charge the MEST and EPA to negotiate and enter into relevant international agreements, ensuring their coordinated requirements
establish mechanisms including ADR methods and procedures for the resolution of local and international disputes
provide avenues for appeals against decisions in all spheres of government

Legislation

Carry out a legal audit to review and establish:

compliance of existing environmental legislation with the Constitution
possibility of consolidating and streamlining the existing environmental legislation
how the results of the audit can be used to develop relevant and effective environmental legislation, norms and standards
how to conduct regular reviews of the relevance and appropriateness of all government policies, strategies, plans, legislation and standards that have impacts on the environment in order to update them in line with emerging developments in environmental management
how to allocate adequate resources to all MDAs to meet the needs for people-driven, sustainable management and the redress of past injustices and inequalities
domesticating international laws, conventions and protocols on the environment into national laws and regulations

4.5.3.2 Strategic Goal 2: Sustainable Resource Use and Impact Management

Government will promote equitable access to, and sustainable use of the country’s natural and cultural resources, promote environmentally sustainable lifestyles, and mainstream environmental impact management practices into all development activities to achieve sustainable development.

Objective

Every citizen of Ghana must have an equitable access to, and make sustainable use of the country’s natural and cultural resources to promote sustainable lifestyles. In the process, environmental impact management must be mainstreamed into all economic development activities to satisfy the basic needs of the people. Government will therefore ensure:

wise use of non-renewable resources
the interest and needs of present and future generations
all environmental impacts related to resource exploitation are assessed
the potential for the use of alternative technologies with lesser environmental impacts are explored
the sustainable use of renewable resources
that investment policies do not unnecessarily transfer ownership of the natural resources of the country into the hands of foreigners

4.5.3.3 Strategic Goal 3: Holistic and Integrated Planning

Under the aegis of the National Development Planning Commission, Government will develop mechanisms to ensure that environmental considerations are adequately integrated into all government policies, programmes and projects.

Objective:

The Environmental Protection Agency and the sector Ministry, in close collaboration with the National Development Planning Commission and other relevant government and non-governmental organizations shall develop mechanisms to ensure that environmental conditions are effectively mainstreamed into the development of policies and programmes. All spatial and economic development planning processes shall be subjected to strategic environmental assessment techniques and other relevant impact assessment methodologies. This will to a large extent ensure:

that integrated environmental principles and methodologies are mainsteamed into spatial development planning including the use of natural and cultural resources;
the development of management instruments and mechanisms for the integration of environmental concerns in development planning and land allocation;
that standards for environmental management systems, environmental impact managements, monitoring and evaluation procedures and reporting for all activities that impact on the environment are set and enforced;
that appropriate indicators to measure performance in all areas of the national, regional, district and local levels are developed and applied;
the improvement in the current review processes for all aspects of environmental management;
that MEST and the EPA as the lead agency review policies, government responsibilities and decision making processes and effectively coordinate these between government administrative sectors;
that state institutions, NGOs, CBOs, traditional authorities and local unions are all involved in the planning and implementation of environmental programmes and projects.

4.5.3.4 Strategic Goal 4: Participation and Coordination in Environmental Governance

The lead institutions in environmental governance will establish mechanisms and processes to ensure active public participation in all environmental matters. Levels of coordination must be clearly identified to avoid interference in the affairs of other institutions.

Objective

Government will establish clearly defined mechanism and processes to ensure public participation in environmental governance by:

establishing multi-sectoral advisory structures (e.g. Inter-Ministerial Committee) in all spheres of government to enable all interested and affected parties to participate in environmental governance;
developing public participation mechanisms (e.g. durbars, town hall meetings) and mechanisms that are fair, transparent, non-political and effective and which will promote the participation of marginalized sectors of society;
allocating government resources, financial and human, to build institutional capacity at the national, regional, district and local levels for effective management and participation of the marginalized in society;
ensuring that national communication strategies address public participation needs;
encouraging alliances between government and all interested and affected persons and parties.

4.5.3.5 Strategic Goal 5: Environmental Awareness Creation and Empowerment

Government will promote education and awareness creation among the Ghanaian population. They will be empowered through the development of knowledge, skills, values and commitment required for sustainable development.

Objective

Government will promote the education and empowerment of all Ghanaians by increasing their awareness of, and concern for environmental issues. Special programmes will be undertaken to develop the local knowledge systems, skills, values and commitment required to achieve overall sustainable development through:

the integration and expansion of environmental education in the curricula of all levels of the educational system
the integration of environmental education into all non-formal educational programmes
the enhancement of environmental literacy through the media
the assurance that environmental education programmes and projects promote a clear understanding of the inter-relationships between and among economic social, cultural, political and environmental issues
the provision of all environmental policy documents in the major Ghanaian languages

4.5.3.6 Strategic Goal 6: Information Management

Relevant state and private sector institutions will be resourced to develop and maintain mechanisms to increase access to information, especially environmental information, through the application of modern tools such as ICT and GIS. A State of The Environment (SOE) Report will be producedd at regular intervals to provide accurate and timely information on the environment.

Objective

Government will develop and improve upon existing information management systems to supply reliable data and information that will support environmental management. For this purpose, government shall:

conduct an information audit through the Ghana Statistical Service with the aim of developing an effective information management system to meet user needs
establish appropriate environmental indicators which will facilitate informed decision making, measure progress in policy implementation and support public participation in environmental governance
strengthen and optimize the capacity of government agencies to collect, analyse and use relevant information for environmental management
disseminate information through formal and informal avenues including the mass media
enjoin the EPA to periodically report on the State of the environment

4.5.3.7 Strategic Goal 7: International Cooperation

Ghana’s role in regional (ECOWAS) and global agreements and other protocols must be sustained. The country’s obligations under international environmental conventions must be respected and nurtured.

In negotiating international agreements, government representatives must ensure adequate and professional familiarity with the themes and must ensure adequate opportunity for consultation with relevant parties before entering and signing these agreements.

Government must cooperate on shared international concerns that are of environmental nature, especially in the ECOWAS Region. Steps will be taken to prevent trans-boundary environmental harm, especially as a result of transhumance and trans-boundary movement of hazardous and toxic waste.

Government must take appropriate measures to prevent ozone layer depletion and other issues related to climate change.

Objective

Government of Ghana is party to international treaties and agreements dealing with environmental matters. In pursuance of these obligations, government shall:

ensure adequate opportunity for consultation with all interested parties before negotiating, entering and implementing international agreements
meet all requirements arising from these international agreements and obligations
cooperate internationally on shared environmental concerns, with particular reference to the ECOWAS Region
ensure that international trade does not lead to wasteful use of natural resources or interfere with their conservation or sustainable use
take appropriate measures to prevent damage to or depletion of stratospheric ozone

5.0 SECTORAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES

This section deals with resource specific policies. The various sectors have developed their individual policies or will be required to develop policies which will control and guide the use of the sectors in a suitable manner. For purposes of sustainable environmental management, the sectoral policies are:

5.1 Sustainable Agriculture

To ensure the sustainable use of the land in an agricultural economy
To promote and encourage low farming systems.
To regulate the use of toxic and hazardous chemicals (pesticides and herbicides) to safeguard human life and the environment.
To ensure that planning for agricultural development incorporates in its cost-benefit analysis the potential costs of soil degradation through erosion and other degrading factors including soil and water pollution.
To undertake full environmental, social and economic impact assessments of all existing and future irrigation projects, especially in the savanna areas.

5.2 Forest and Wildlife Resources

To ensure that forestry development strategies integrate the development, management and conservation of forest resources with those of land and water resources, energy resources, wildlife resources, ecosystems and genetic resources as well as with crop and livestock production.
To protect nature and habitat, landscape, flora and fauna from the threat of degradation and depletion
To increase the acceptance and practice of the principle of “sustainable forest management” which is only achieved when the volume of wood harvested in a given period is about equal to the net growth generated by the forest.
To pursue crop production and animal husbandry policies and programmes that will reduce pressure on fragile forest and woodland ecosystems.
To find substitutes for construction and fuel wood and popularize the use of lesser- known wood species in order to reduce pressure on forests.
To control the occurrence of annual wildfires.

5.3 Genetic, Species and Ecosystem Biodiversity Conservation

To conserve the diversity of landscapes, ecosystems, habitats, biological communities, populations, species and genes throughout the country.
To use biological resources sustainably and minimize adverse impacts on biological diversity.
To ensure that benefits derived from the use and development of the country’s genetic resources serve individual communities and national interests.
To create and implement conditions and incentives that support the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity at the national and international levels.
To encourage involvement of local communities inside and outside protected areas in the planning and management of such areas.
To ensure that the conservation of biological diversity outside protected areas is integrated with strategic national land use plans, district and local level plans and strategies.
To include in protected areas a wide range of ecosystems and habitats as possible and where appropriate, to link them by corridors of suitable habitats to neighbouring countries for purposes of wildlife migration.
To ensure that economic and pricing policies and instruments support biodiversity conservation.

5.4 Marine and Coastal Zone Management

To ensure that the management, development and use of the coastal zone is integrated and environmentally sustainable.
To ensure that the protection of the coastal wetlands is observed in line with the principles of the Ramsar Convention.
To maintain the “wise use” and “appropriate technology” concepts in the use of marine and coastal zone resources.
To adhere to residential and industrial land use regulations in order to protect coastal ecosystems.

5.5 Water Resources

To vigorously pursue measures in place to resolve conflicts between the different uses of water and ensure that these are reduced further to the minimum.
To make efforts to protect the various watersheds and pay special attention to buffer zone protection.
To employ environmentally sound methods of disposing waste water as well as to prevent pollution of fresh water bodies.
To reduce land-based pollutants flowing into the sea
To ensure that the quantity, quality and reliability of water required to maintain ecological balance is maintained.
To support the river basin approach to water resources development and adopt the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) concept.
To actively support the international waters programme especially activities of the Volta Basin Authority.
To control the introduction of exotic alien species into freshwater ecosystems and subject such acts to detailed ecological studies and environmental impact assessment.
To give particular attention to the role of women as the “managers” of water resources.
To subject all major water resources conservation and development projects to environmental impact assessment procedures.
The Water Resources Commission (WRC), the lead agency in the water sector, to pursue its coordination functions to the maximum.

5.6 Energy Resources

To adopt an inter-sectoral approach to energy planning and development which integrates energy development with energy conservation, environmental protection and sustainable utilization of renewable energy resources.
To reduce the pressure on forests for wood-fuels and encourage the use of renewable energy resources in order to reduce the use of fossil energy.
To ensure that rigorous feasibility studies are undertaken for hydro-electricity facilities and other significant generating facilities all of which must be subjected to environmental impact assessment.
To maximize the use of the nation’s hydro carbon resources in the production and distribution of energy.

5.7 Mineral Resources

To safeguard the long-term usability of the land in mining areas through the implementation of environmental management plans (EMPs) as part of EIAs.
To encourage and control small-scale miners to practise organized and responsible mining so as to be consistent with environmental laws and regulations.
To advise and train mining communities in methods of environmental protection and the use of abandoned mining areas.
To strengthen the capacity of respective government institutions to regulate and administer environmental educational programmes for the public and for industry in environmental monitoring and the provision of technical advice in environmental management during mining operations.
To use mining contracts to ensure that mining operations prepare environmental impact studies and undertake appropriate mitigation and reclamation measures.
To regularly review the country’s mining laws to reflect emerging issues in environmental management especially the restoration of mined land to the best improved level that the prevailing ecological conditions allow.

5.8 Petroleum Exploration

To ensure that petroleum exploration, a new industry in the country, takes advantage of challenges experienced in other oil producing West African countries and conforms with existing and new environmental protection regulations.
To promote the sound management of the petroleum resources of the country.
To initiate, formulate and review policies and strategies for the development of the petroleum sub-sector.
To ensure optimal operations of the petroleum resource consistent with sound technical, economic and environmental practices in the international petroleum industry.

5.9 Urban Development

To plan and control the limit of growth of urban settlements in order to avoid the expansion of “millionaire” cities.
To introduce modern management systems at the national, regional and district capitals.
To incorporate rural-urban migration, land title and environmental health issues into the activities of the National Development Planning Commission.
To reduce the level of waste generation and housing stock shortage and other environmental degradation concerns associated with urban development.
To recognize the importance of and help bring about behavioral change through education and public awareness of environmental sanitation problems in order to bring about improved urban environmental conditions as well as the sustainable use and maintenance of sanitation facilities.
To create more job opportunities for urban dwellers.

5.10 Waste Management

To reduce and manage waste generated in urban areas as a result of residential and economic activity.
To regulate and monitor waste production, enforce waste control measures and consolidate waste management under metropolitan, municipal and district administrations.
To set targets to minimize waste generation at the different levels.
To promote a hierarchy of waste management practices, namely reduction of waste, reuse, recycling and safe disposal as the last resort.
To provide special training and control the generation and disposal of toxic waste and hazardous materials.
To promote the adoption of waste-to-energy practices.
To educate the general public on littering.
To control the importation of aged materials that easily converts to hazardous waste.
To provide incentives to adopt affordable and appropriate technologies in waste management.
To promote and nurture sound partnerships between and among government, communities and the private sector in the development of an integrated sanitation delivery system and to foster the supplementary role of NGOs in the urban areas.
To introduce effective policies and incentives to encourage waste producers to adopt cleaner production processes and minimize waste generation.

5.11 Pollution Prevention and Control

To prevent, reduce and control pollution of any part of the environment resulting from any form of human activity especially toxic and other hazardous substances.
To set targets to minimize waste generation and pollution at source.
To regulate and monitor waste production, enforce waste control measures, and coordinate administration of integrated pollution control and waste management under a decentralized system.
To improve existing information systems on chemical hazards and toxic discharges and monitor the transport of hazardous materials.
To ensure the protection and proactive management of human health-related problems in the environment.
To adopt the “polluter pays principle” while endorsing the “precautionary principle.”
To establish clear linkages between the control of pollution and policies of other sectors including water resources, agriculture, human settlements, health and disaster prevention and preparedness.
To ensure that pollution control is commensurate with the potency, longevity and potential to increase or reproduce the pollutant.
To enforce the guidelines for the location and management of sanitary landfill sites.
To review and develop guidelines for waste disposal, public and industrial waste disposal systems
To formulate and implement a countrywide strategy and guidelines on the management of wastes from medical, agricultural and other sectors that may use potentially hazardous materials.
To establish a system for monitoring compliance with land, air and water pollution control standards and regulations, the handling and storage of hazardous materials, mining operations, public and industrial hygiene, waste disposal and water quality.
To update the register of toxic, hazardous and radio-active substances and to make the information available on request.
To foster better nationwide knowledge and understanding of the dangerous effects of chemicals through the provision of information in a form understandable by all users.

6.0 CROSS-SECTORAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES

The following cross-sectoral issues are considered in the context of the environmental policy:

6.1 Population and the Environment

To integrate population planning and resource management issues into environmental management to achieve sustainable lifestyles.
To inculcate environmental management principles, both traditional and modern, among school children so that they will grow to appreciate the environment as a life supporting system.
To include issues of poverty, health and education into the national development planning process since these are interlinked with those of population growth, availability and access to resources and environmental sustainability.
To empower women in order to facilitate their participation in population and environmental decision making.

6.2 Community Participation and the Environment

To provide facilities and avenues for the entire population to participate in environmental management.
To familiarize the majority of the national population with all phases of environmental and resource development and management: – project conception planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation.
To develop and disseminate effective methods of popular participation in the planning and implementation of environmental and resource use projects and programmes.
To develop the necessary legislation, training and provide financial support to grassroots communities to ensure their participation in resource and environmental management.

6.3 Social and Gender Issues

To ensure that environmental awareness and public education programmes include both men and women across the social divide.
To ensure that impact assessments cover all policies, programmes and projects in order to maximize equity for economic, ethnic, social, cultural, gender and age groups, especially the socially disadvantaged.
To facilitate the participation of women across all sections of society in training, public awareness campaigns, formal and non-formal education and decision-making processes in environmental management.

6.4 Environmental Economics

To ensure that environmental cost and benefit analyses are applied in national development planning processes including programme and project preparation.
To develop an accurate information base and standardized methodologies to facilitate calculation of environmental costs and benefits.
To introduce environmental accounting at the tertiary level of the educational system.
To develop the capacity of government agencies to monitor contracts, leases, concessions and performance bonds used for sustainable resource management and environmental protection.

6.5 Environmental Education and Awareness

To promote the teaching of environmental education on a multi-disciplinary basis and integrate it into the schools curricula.
To increase the awareness of the population and their concern for environmental issues.
To develop the knowledge, skills, values and commitment required to achieve sustainable development.
To target the public, particularly those involved in public and private sector activities that have significant environmental impacts, for environmental education and awareness programmes.
To ensure that all sections of the populations understand the functioning of the environment and the problems thereof, and contribute to the improvement of the environment.
To increase the role of the media in fostering environmental awareness and education.
To encourage religious leaders, traditional leaders and opinion leaders to foster environmental education and awareness.

6.6 Environmental Information System

To develop an appropriate information management system to support the principle that the right to live in a clean and healthy environment carries with it the right to be informed about environmental issues.
To make available environmental information as a constitutional right to all interested people where appropriate.
To base information generation on identified user needs, to make it demand-driven.
To ensure that all environmental data collection, analysis and dissemination are coordinated and standardized but not centralized.
To provide clear legislation and guidelines on environmental data generation indicating where restrictions are due.
To develop a GIS database to help form a basis of an early warning system of environmental deterioration.

6.7 Environmental Research

To develop strategic environmental research which aims at identifying the social, economic and technical factors which influence resource and environmental management.
To support research on appropriate technologies for environmental management.
To combine existing traditional systems of research and learning with a new system which incorporates both modern and traditional components.
To allocate funds to support strategic, applied and adaptive research programmes and projects especially at the tertiary level
To allocate adequate resources to the respective Institutes of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to perform their roles in environmental research

6.8 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

To strengthen the existing EIA procedures to consider social, socio-economic, political and cultural conditions in addition to the traditional physical and biological impacts.
To ensure that public and private sector development programmes and projects consider environmental impacts and incorporate them into the design process.
To recognize and widen the scope of public consultation as an integral part of the EIA process.
To take independent review and public comments into consideration before granting approval to proponents.
To ensure that environmental impact statements (EIS) include mitigation and environmental management plans and contingency plans in case of accidents.
To enforce existing EIA laws and regulations.
To subject all sector policies, programmes and projects to strategic environmental assessment (SEA)
To strengthen the capacity of the Environmental Protection Agency to administer the EIA process and provide training to institutions in the conduct of EIA.

7.0 POLICY IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS

7.1 Institutional Framework and Responsibilities

This policy will give political and grassroots support to the sustainable use of Ghana’s natural, human-made and cultural resources and the management of the general environment to ensure decent life-styles for every Ghanaian.

It will also ensure that the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST) and EPA and other coordination and management institutions (e.g. the NDPC) from the national down to the local levels perform their mandates as defined by the enabling Acts. Successful environmental management will then be assured through the maximum use of existing institutional structures. In effect, the levels of implementation will include communities, districts, and regions to the national level. The sectors will cover state institutions, non-state actors, traditional leaders and local unions.

The policy determines institutional arrangements for the formulation of strategies, legislation, regulation, monitoring and enforcement for conservation and natural resource development using the following criteria:

conformity with the provisions of the Constitution, with particular reference to the decentralization policy
harmonization of sectoral interests
integration of environmental management with development planning beginning at the national level.

In order to avoid conflict of interests, the policy assigns responsibilities to separate institutions for environmental and natural resource development and management activities. On the other hand, environmental protection, regulation and monitoring are vested in the lead agency, EPA, under the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology.

7.2 Legislative Framework

The legal framework should encourage the participation of all Ghanaians in the management of the country’s resources. It should ensure that all aspects of the legal system are in agreement with the supreme law of the country and the prevailing political, socio-cultural and economic policies, and to harmonize these with the principles of sustainable development.

The framework should create conditions for formulating, reviewing and enforcing and updating sectoral regulations for the restoration, protection, management and sustainable use of all resources in the country. The review process should take on board emerging issues in environmental management.

Finally, the environmental policy provides a broad framework for both punitive and incentive measures.

7.3 National Environmental Action Plan (NEAP)

In order to ensure that the national policy is successfully translated into action, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in consultation with Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST) and the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) and other relevant institutions, will develop a new National Environmental Action Plan detailing strategies and action plans, and setting targets and time frames for the Medium Term (i.e. Ten years).

The NEAP will focus on and prioritize goals and objectives which require action by government and other MDAs within the next ten years. Criteria for prioritization will include:

- those actions which will ensure healthy working and living environments

- actions to protect the environment for present and future generations

- activities to assist in achieving growth to meet basic human needs

- programmes to achieve integrated and holistic environmental management

The NEAP process must be participatory, drawing on the experience of the previous NEAP.

7.4 Financing Arrangements

A major factor required to ensure success of policy implementation is the timely availability of adequate funding required for programme and project implementation. Due to the cross- sectoral nature of the environment, financing arrangements for the sector have implications for all individuals, households, communities, District Assemblies, Ministries, Government of Ghana and Development Partners, i.e. all stakeholders.

7.4.1 Objective:

To ensure the availability of funding in adequate amounts and at the appropriate time to manage, rehabilitate and restore the environment in its totality throughout the territory of Ghana.

7.4.2 Measures:

Maintain and restructure the Environmental Management Fund established under the EPA Act.
Provide the business community with incentives to enable them contribute to the Environmental Management Fund.
Ensure that each MDA generates enough funds internally to finance environmental projects within its jurisdiction.
Solicit funding from development Partners and other international organization for specific project support.

7.5 Monitoring, Evaluation and Policy Review

Individual programme and project monitoring is the responsibility of the appropriate decentralized institutions. However, monitoring of the overall impacts of the implementation of this Policy on the country’s resources should be consistent with the institutional arrangements specified above i.e. the MEST through the Cross-Sectoral Planning Group carries the overall responsibility for monitoring, evaluation and review of this Policy. However, specific aspects of monitoring can be delegated to other institutions, e.g EPA.

7.6 Conclusion

The Ghanaian economy and society in general are characterized by inequitable distribution of resources and wealth. A minority enjoys high living standards with relatively good housing, infrastructure and services, all of which are congregated in the urban centres. On the other hand the basic needs of the majority are not adequately met.

This range from high to low income lifestyles and circumstances creates particular problems for the management and protection of the environment and the promotion of sustainable development. In this situation, the environmental policy must face the challenges of addressing both the basic needs and survival strategies of the poor and the impacts of the relatively endowed in the society.

This is the context within which the environmental policy must function, and against which government will measure the success or failure of policy implementation.

APPENDIX I

NATIONWIDE CONSULTATION REPORTS

CONSULTATIVE MEETING WITH STAKEHOLDERS AT TAMALE

19^TH JANUARY, 2010

Participants

Names	Departments
Hon. Moses Mambingbe (Dep. Regional Minister)	Regional Administration
Bawa Karim (Dep. Chief, Nadmo)	NADMO
Azumah Kenneth (Community Devpt Officer)	DCD
Musulah Yvonne (ADPO)	RPCU
Naasiba Ahmed	NPC
Ahmed Tyani	MOFA
Acko Bawa	GNFS
Jacob L. Ndego	Dept of Women
Simon Laryea Okang	Lands Commission
Abu Iddrisu	EPA (N/R)
Nsiav Bemoah	Forestry Commission

COMMENTS ON EXISTING POLICY DOCUMENT

All except one (EPA Regional officer) participant indicated having knowledge of the existence of the policy document. They recommend that the new document should be widely distributed and even translated into local languages.

Current document lacks focus. It must have a clearly defined direction. Also it must include milestones. The objectives of the current one are outmoded because of the emergence of new environmental issues, e.g. conflict resolution, public participation; communication strategy/dissemination plans needs to be spelt out.

Coordination among various stakeholders is poorly indicated in the existing document, as made available to them for the purposes of the consultation. Efforts should be made to harness internal resources for preparation and implementation of the new policy instead of relying largely on foreign donor assistance.

International relations should be part of the policy document to avoid, for example, confrontation with foreign herdsmen from Togo and Bourkina Faso. This should also help curb activities such as charcoal preparation. Participants also indicated existence of ‘Operation Hot’ which creates browsing corridors where cattle herdsmen will be concentrated. This concept of ‘hotspots’ could be extended to the Northern part of the country.

There is need for training for stakeholders on the national environmental policy to facilitate awareness creation.

SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT ON THE NEW POLICY

An economic analysis of environmental degradation throughout the country must be undertaken for inclusion in the new policy.

National Environmental fund must be set-up to replace (or subsidize) current donor funds.

Institutions for enforcement of the regulations must be defined. Also the use of local knowledge systems and the whole process must be from the ground up. Furthermore, the existing penalties for environmental abuse, especially bush burning are not punitive enough.

Financing the policy implementation. Constraints on mobility of institutions in charge of implementation at the regional and district levels should be addressed.

National awareness creation programs using Radio, TV and internet to sensitize the entire citizenry on environmental challenges.

Training for the judiciary and other law enforcement agencies to administer sanctions for environmental abuse.

Traditional authorities are currently poorly involved in policy implementation. They must be involved from the formulation stage through implementation stage. They must be empowered through the policy to take action at the local level.

Monitoring components of the policy must be clearly indicated.

There is the need to bridge the gap between research, monitoring and management of the process.

Components of budgets of all land-based projects should be channeled into the environmental fund. In addition, fines at the ports, levies on road users and percentage of the District Assembly common funds and PPP should be considered.

Coordination/Consultation: This should be done at the grass roots through the District Assembly channels or systems; women’s groups and other advocacy groups. TV debates, FM stations. Creates a forum for donor agencies during the policy formulation process, eg. GTZ, CIDA. Mobile service providers and the entire membership pf the parliament (Speaker, MPs etc).

There is need for a follow-up visit for further consultation during the process.

The Role of women in water and sanitation issues

The role of women in water issues must be clearly identified in the policy and linked to training and awareness creation.

There is the need to make training available to women to enable them play key roles in water management. Knowledge and awareness creation among women on water and sanitation issues could be promoted by seminars.

Introduction of community led activities (community led environmental actions) should be considered. Also research into community led environmental systems should be enhanced. These activities should be funded by a percentage of the common fund.

CONSULTATIVE MEETING WITH STAKEHOLDERS AT KUMASI

21^ST JANUARY, 2010

** Comments on Policy – Shortcomings

- Falls short of current environmental challenges

- Falls short of mining operations

- No specific issues on Waste Management (eg. Solid/Liquid waste –

what can be done?

** Problems with implementation

Noise

- Religious activities/functions, Road traffic noise (difficulty in enforcement)

- Those in charge of planning are not in charge of monitoring

- Enforcement is rather in the hands of the different institutions, e.g. District assembly and EPA.

- Planning should not be one-time event, but must be dynamic since human activities are dynamic.

** General – Problems with coordination

- Water Bodies (who manages reserves) No coordination sometimes as to who takes responsibility when problem arises (The role of water Resources Commission).

- EPA (In touch with some district assemblies; no cooperation from some others; most are interested in their revenue so no concentration on the environment.;

Forestry Commission – not much coordination

- Committees exist at the National, Regional and District levels but most times expertise is limited in all cases, especially at the district levels.

- Lack of clarity in the Policy.

** Suggestions for new Policy

- Factor in dynamic/current issues in all existing policies

- Take cognizance of what the sectors already have by way of policy

- Who is responsible for what in each sector (new policy must be specific).

- Noise

* Introduce into planning (land use) programmes dealing with education and awareness creation, monitoring and controlling.

* Need for Planning Inspectors/Building Inspectors

* Future development must take into consideration, other residential needs ab initio, e.g. commercial activities, transportation, waste management needs, etc.

* In light of the above, guidelines must be designed to control

* Take into consideration emerging human activities

* EPA and other similar institutions must be proactive in their handling of management issues.

* Synergy to control post planning challenges

* Use modern tools for managing noise (GIS), EIA

* Expand base for enforcement

* Noise abetment laws

* Check importations of used vehicles and other equipment.

- Waste Management

* Converting Waste to Energy

* Waste Re-use (4Rs – Recycling, Re-use, Reduction)

* Disposal – (plans/standards to be set; how? where?)

* Promote community level compost infrastructure

* Compost should go with market opportunities

* Littering abetment

*Provide incentives for the adoption of new technologies in waste management

- Coordination

* Define Coordination

* Define role EPA has to play with specific institutions (taking into consideration to what extent other institutions feel EPA is interfering or playing superior)

- Collaboration

* Different levels at which collaboration will take place must be stated in new Policy

- Agro Chemicals (Check the following)

* Adulteration and faking (Chemical Control)

* Pollution

* Designated areas for selling

* Transportation (accidents and spillage)

- International Relations

* Trans-boundary issues, safety issues, regulations

- Emerging Oil finds

* Environmental, Ecological, Social and economic problems associated with oil

Finds.

** Awareness Creation

* Public Education (Negativities)

- Not been tackled well because of limitations in terms of logistics

- Getting free air-time on Radio and TV is difficult

- Sponsorship ( FM Stations to solicit on behalf of EPA, but has been

easy to come by so far)

* Public Education (Positives)

- Media Encounters (FM Stations invite EPA for discussions)

- School Programmes

- Community Approaches

- Local Language Usage

* The use of indigenous knowledge systems

** Women in Environment (Roles/Management)

- Harvesting of firewood, fetching of water, managing domestic waste

- Empowerment (for proper management of the above listed activities)

- Education

** Financing the Policy

- Create a Fund (from levies and taxes)

- Government Coffers

- Polluter Pays Principle

- Mines (Royalties)

- Ecological Tax (eg. Sachet water producers/Mining/Timber Contractors, etc.)

- Setting up environmental courts

CONTRIBUTIONS FROM EPA STAKEHOLDERS

Preamble: Environmental Policy review should be done in tandem with NDPC policy development cycles.

Background of whole policy should capture current environment challenges which the policy intends to rectify.

New Policy should take cognizance of what are in place now i.e. policies already enacted for the various sectors.

Who is responsible for what in each sector should be spelt out clearly.

Review of energy policy and other sectoral policies must move along with review of new environmental policy.

Environmental protection should capture some aspect of conservation.

Enforcement – role of judiciary/police/other stake holders should be spelt out clearly

Chemical control: role of end users and the general public

Policy should have something on:

E-waste

oil/gas

climate change

capacity building development (principles)

* institutional

* human resources

CONTRIBUTIONS FROM EPAC STAKEHOLDERS

- The fundamental aims of the environmental policy should not only be pursued through harmonization and enforcement of relevant laws, there should also be public education through any means by which it can be understood by the public adequately.

- The formulation of the Environmental Action Plan should be all inclusive. It should not be sector specific.

- These should also be detailed Action Plan in order to pursue and achieve the objective.

ENERGY RESOURCE

- The policy statement on energy resources should encompass the impact or threat that will be posed be the upcoming oil exploration companies on the environment.

COASTAL REGION

- There should be a framework or legislature or policy guide that control the activities of sand winning at the coastal region

PROTECTION OF SOIL

- In tackling the principal threat of soil especially the misuse and waste as a result of space consuming activities, the Land Commission should be brought on board to specify innovative land soil protection techniques.

- There should be massive public education to advocate the use of organic fertilizer by farmers.

WATER RESOURCES

The activities around in-land water bodies should also be monitored as those activities also pose threats to the existence of those water bodies, especially farming activities.

URBAN AREAS AND WASTE MANAGEMENT

The policy should also focus on timely education of the public by the appropriate MDA on safe disposal and re-use of waste.

Water Bodies

- Watershed and inland water bodies can also be protected by afforestation campaigns. These must be timely and continuous.

- Mining activities near water bodies should be monitored.

- The water quality should also be checked regularly in order to save alarm in case there are any mis-happenings.

Chemicals

There is also the need to encourage the substitution of chemical with biological products, where possible, e.g. Farming.

Noise

- As noise is a bye product of industrialization emerging industries should be placed at the country side or outside the cities.

- A legislation should be made to ban the use of horns by road users at night in residential areas, unless very necessary and crucial.

- Apart from the public education, there should be proper planning of our cities and towns; in this view, industries, factories, churches and schools will be appropriately located.

DEVELOPMENT OF APPROPRIATE INSTRUMENTS

- As part of the social corporate responsibilities of businesses, they should be encouraged or tasked to take some eminent responsibilities in implementing this policy. Especially those whose activities affect the environment directly or indirectly.

- In monitoring, there should also be information sharing of outcomes with the relevant agencies for rectification and continuous purpose.

- In educating the activities about essence of this policy, international agreement and treaties should not be left out.

- During environmental monitoring surprise visits also helps the responsible persons or individuals to be up to task.

NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT POLICY

CONSULTATIVE MEETING, KUMASI, 21/01/2010

NAME	INSTITUTION	POSITION	TEL NO	E-MAIL
Randy Aboagye Quayson	Ashanti Region Co-ordination Council	Asst. Development Planning Officer	0208983190	Randy quayson@yahoo.com
John Kwadwo Owusu	EPAG	Executive Director	051 29950	envprotass@yahoo.com
Clement Mensah	MOFA	Quarantine Officer	0242914194
James Ware K.	FSD, Ashanti	Assistant Regional Manager	0244475691	Jkware12@yahoo.com
Benjamin Agyanim Boateng	TCPD, Kumasi Metro	Town Planning Officer	0244696651	Agyeboat207@yahoo.co.uk
Duah Anthony	EPA, Sunyani	Programme Officer	0243570147	anthonyduah@mail.com
Isaac Osei	EPA, Sunyani	Director	0208126050	Isosei5@yahoo.com
Kwame Omane Opoku	EPA, Ashanti	Senior Programme Officer	0244783154	komaneopoku@yahoo.com
Kwesi Eyiah-Mensah	EPA, Ashanti	Programme Officer	0244850110	eyiahmensah@yahoo.com
David Barnes	EPA, Ashanti	Assistant Programme Officer	0203166026	david.barnes 23@yahoo.com
Hamidu Abdulai	EPA, Ashanti	Assistant Programme Officer	0243274667	abdulaihamid@yahoo.com
Eunice Osei	EPA, Ashanti	Senior Programme Officer	0274833110	ncosei@yahoo.co.uk
Adarkwa Yiadom P.	EPA, Ashanti	Programme Officer	0244674383	yiaprem@yahoo.com
Felicia Gyamfi Karikari	EPA, Ashanti	Assistant Administrative Officer	0244811878	fkarikari@yahoo.com
Daniel Tutu Benefor	EPA, Ashanti	Programme Officer	0246114652	Dbenefor2000@gmail.com
Gloria Amoako-Mensah	EPA, Ashanti	National Service Person	0243631208	Amoakomensah09@gmail.com
Eunice Dufie Poku	EPA, Ashanti	National Service Person	0243309704	dufiepoku@yahoo.com
Franklin Obeng Sika	EPA, Ashanti	National Service Person	0242813215	frankiejayfos@yahoo.com
Daniel Kofi Essien	EPA, Ashanti	National Service Person	0208379938	Kunal200010@yahoo.com
Enoch Ofosu	EPA, Ashanti	Internship	0249106152	blessedenoch@yahoo.co.uk

REGISTRATION

CONSULTATIVE MEETING WITH STAKEHOLDERS AT CAPE COAST

26^TH MARCH, 2010

COMMENTS ON EXISTING POLICY DOCUMENT

All participants indicated having knowledge of the existence of the policy document. However, (with the exception of the Regional EPA Officer) none of the participants indicated working with its contents as a guide in their respective departments.

Current document lacks focus and has several shortcomings. Some of the shortcomings noted include:

Ø Nothing in specifically was stated about the management of water resources. They noted in particular that issues relating to water quality, water harvesting techniques etc are of critical interest in water management but had not been touched upon in the current policy document.

Ø Other issues of interest, which have not been amplified in the current policy, are management of pesticides and residues, e-waste management; health care (hospital) waste management. These, they believe, are emerging issues that the new policy must consider given its health and environmental implications.

Ø Also identified as missing in the current document is farming practices and their attendant consequences—i.e. the incorporation of buffer zone protection as a national policy issue. Participants also indicated the need for government to take a critical look at Mining and its impacts on water bodies especially in the Central and Western regions. They buttressed their point by citing the case of mining in the Dunkwa-on-Offin area and its impact on the Pra River.

Ø Participants further identified the need for stressing issues relating to environmental education more concretely in the new document since this had not been adequately considered in the current policy document. They underscored the importance of this in stemming resource depletion (especially through experiential learning), and illustrated how learning from the experiences of Bourkina Fasso could be of relevance to Ghana.

Ø Legislation problems have also not escaped notice. They mentioned the need to revisit issues relating to the signing of contracts at the ministries without consultations with the AGs office as a problem area which needs to be addressed.

Ø The issue relating to the need for a review of arrangements governing the existing national environmental fund also came to the fore. They mentioned that under the current practice, it’s only the board that is authorized to spend such funds. This, they believe has some implementation problems that need to be re-examined and considered during the drafting of the new policy to enhance execution of environmental programs. Linked to this is also the challenge of generation of extra funding. For example, should regional offices of the EPA generate funds through charges, fees, consultancies etc that could be used to augment existing sources to enable them implement projects of critical need. A concrete policy on these issues appears to be absent and should be considered.

Ø Lastly, participants identified the importance of incorporating indigenous knowledge systems in the management of environmental systems. However, they are of the view that the current policy does not state anything explicitly on this. They expect that the new policy should give some thoughts to strengthening collaboration with traditional authorities (chiefs, community leaders etc) in our search for alternative approaches to sound environmental management.

SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT ON THE NEW POLICY

Participants suggested the need to empower law enforcement institutions. Also the use of local knowledge systems and the whole process must be from the ground up.
There is also the need to training for the judiciary and other law enforcement agencies to administer sanctions for environmental abuse.

Traditional authorities are currently poorly involved in policy implementation. They must be involved from the formulation stage through implementation stage. They must be empowered through the policy to take action at the local level.

Monitoring components of the policy must be clearly indicated.

There is the need to bridge the gap between research, monitoring and management of the process.

Components of budgets of all land-based projects should be channeled into the environmental fund. In addition, fines at the ports, levies on road users and percentage of the District Assembly common funds and PPP should be considered.

Coordination/Consultation: This should be done at the grass roots through the District Assembly channels or systems; women’s groups and other advocacy groups. TV debates, FM stations. Creates a forum for donor agencies during the policy formulation process, eg. GTZ, CIDA. Mobile service providers and the entire membership pf the parliament (Speaker, MPs etc).

There is need for a follow-up visit for further consultation during the process.

The Role of Women in Water and Sanitation Issues

The role of women in water issues must be clearly identified in the policy and linked to training and awareness creation.

There is the need to make training available to women to enable them play key roles in water management. Knowledge and awareness creation among women on water and sanitation issues could be promoted by seminars.

Introduction of community-led activities (community led environmental actions) should be considered. Also research into community-led environmental systems should be enhanced. These activities should be funded by a percentage of the common fund.

CONSULTATIVE MEETING WITH STAKEHOLDERS AT TARKORADI

25^TH MARCH, 2010

COMMENTS ON EXISTING POLICY DOCUMENT

v Awareness of the existence of the policy document:

Almost all the participants (with the exception of a few) indicated having knowledge of the existence of the policy document, but said they had not seen it.

o Views on the policy document:

Participants noted that the policy has a number of shortcomings. Among them are the following:

Ø The current policy appears to have given limited focus to land use issues in urban areas. The problem impact of human activities in urban environments has been identified, particularly the challenges faced by water bodies (i.e. garbage disposal in water bodies).

Ø Marine environment also recognized as one area that had received adequate attention in the existing policy. This they argued need to be given critical attention in the new policy. Linked to this is also the issue of data(information) on the coastal zones and the marine environment, which they believed must be given priority in this era of oil-find.

Ø The erection of the telephone masts in communities and its associated threats was also raised as a matter of concern that needs to be given attention in the new policy.

Ø Wetlands and the challenges confronting them—e.g. exploitation of mangroves— was also raised as an important issue that merits attention.

Ø Waste management policies of today must include ‘Hazardous wastes’ (e-wastes). They noted in particular used-refrigerators, TVs etc. as major contemporary issues that need to be incorporated into the new policy. In addition the problem of plastic waste e.g. the sachet water industry and its challenges have been identified. Participants proposed that there should be a clear policy that addresses these issues.

Ø Environmental standards: participants identified lack of environmental standards which should support agencies in the enforcement of laws. They stressed the need for clear and unambiguous laws to be formulated. For example, the new policy should create opportunities for the formulation of requirements, regulations on development activities (projects), and environmental permitting. Also responsibilities for permitting must be clearly spelt-out, ( e.g. Assemblies or EPA).

Ø Penalties: Reviews of penalties need to be seriously considered to serve as a deterrent for violators.

SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT ON THE NEW POLICY

More directives should be given on the control of oil-spillage in this era of oil find. Also protection of the marine environment/ecosystem should be an issue of concern.

Challenges/Roles to be played by MDGs in the Oil and Gas Era.

Forestry Commission: They noted pressure on the resources for food especially in the Cape Three Points area as a challenge. Accordingly, there is need for resources to support awareness drive on conservation. They also recognized the need for ‘Alternative Livelihood Schemes’ to be established in the communities.

The Navy: Need for a Naval Task Force to protect areas close to the oil rigs.

CEPS: They indicated the absence of a specific policy on their role in the oil industry as a problem. In particular, the lack of Radiation Protection Board (RPB) in the region to check the importation and use of radioactive substances in the oil industry needs to be considered.

EPA: Baseline preparation is underway. There is therefore some data on sediments so should there be cases of pollution, they will know what action to take. Training programs are also underway for the handling of spillage. In addition to these, policies on health and safety have also been prepared, and equipments are also available for physico-chemical analysis. However, there is need for a laboratory. There is also need for an electronic data storage equipment(computers). Finally, EPA indicated having initiated SEA on the Oil and Gas industry.

Atorney-Generals Department: They noted rising cases of litigation concerning land in the wake of the Oil find. Also they noted non-compliance with regulation as a problem that needs to be addressed.

since we now now haveParticipants suggested the need to empower law enforcement institutions. Also the use of local knowledge systems and the whole process must be from the ground up.

There is also the need to training for the judiciary and other law enforcement agencies to administer sanctions for environmental abuse.

Traditional authorities are currently poorly involved in policy implementation. They must be involved from the formulation stage through implementation stage. They must be empowered through the policy to take action at the local level.

Monitoring components of the policy must be clearly indicated.

There is the need to bridge the gap between research, monitoring and management of the process.

Components of budgets of all land-based projects should be channeled into the environmental fund. In addition, fines at the ports, levies on road users and percentage of the District Assembly common funds and PPP should be considered.

Coordination/Consultation: This should be done at the grass roots through the District Assembly channels or systems; women’s groups and other advocacy groups. TV debates, FM stations. Creates a forum for donor agencies during the policy formulation process, eg. GTZ, CIDA. Mobile service providers and the entire membership pf the parliament (Speaker, MPs etc).

There is need for a follow-up visit for further consultation during the process.

The Role of Women in Water and Sanitation Issues

The role of women in water issues must be clearly identified in the policy and linked to training and awareness creation.

There is the need to make training available to women to enable them play key roles in water management. Knowledge and awareness creation among women on water and sanitation issues could be promoted by seminars.

Introduction of community-led activities (community led environmental actions) should be considered. Also research into community-led environmental systems should be enhanced. These activities should be funded by a percentage of the common fund.

APPENDIX II

SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES IN SELECTED AFRICAN COUNTRIES

Country	Title	Year of Enactment	Responsible National Authority	Areas of Coverage	Remarks
The Gambia	The Gambia: National Environment Management Act	1994	National Environment Agency (NEA) National Environmental Management Council	· General Principles · Administration · Environmental Planning · Environmental Impact Assessment, Audit and Monitoring · Environmental Standards · Environmental Management · Information, Education and Public Awareness · Offences · Judicial Proceedings	An Act for the control and management of the environment and to make provision for matters concerned therewith. This was to assure all persons living in The Gambia the fundamental right to an environment adequate for their health and well-being.
Republic of South Africa	Republic of South Africa: Environmental Management Policy	1997	Department of Environment Affairs and Tourism	· Vision · Principles · Strategic Goals and Objectives · Governance – Constitutional Setting	This is a bold policy with a broad vision founded on respect for all the relevant principles and themes of environmentalism and sustainable development. In this regard, the policy identifies a lead department for integrated environmental management in South Africa.
Federal Republic of Ethiopia	Federal Republic of Ethiopia: Environmental Policy	1997	Environmental Protection Authority/Ministry of Economic Development and Cooperation	· Resource Base and need for a Policy · The Policy Goal, Objectives and Guiding Principles · Sectoral Environmental Policies · Cross-Sectoral Environmental Policies · Policy Implementation	The Policy document is a succinct 28-page document which was prepared to reflect the need to improve and enhance the health and quality of life of all the citizens of Ethiopia.
Kenya	Kenya: Environmental Management and Coordination Act	1999	The National Environmental Council	· General Principles · Administration · Environmental Planning · Protection and Conservation of the Environment · Environmental Impact Assessment · Environmental Audit and Monitoring · Environmental Restoration, Conservation and Easements · Inspection, Analysis and Records · International Treaties, Conventions and Agreements · National Environmental Tribunal · Environmental Offences	This is an Act of Parliament to provide for the establishment of an appropriate legal and institutional framework for the management of the environment in Kenya.

APPENDIX III

SUMMARY OF MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES AND CURRENT MANAGEMENT INTERVENTIONS

SUMMARY OF MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES AND CURRENT MANAGEMENT INTERVENTIONS

2.1 Challenges and management activities

The current environmental challenges and management activities in Ghana have been summarized in the following matrix:

ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGE

CHARACTERISTICS

MANAGEMENT ACTIVITES

1. Land degradation

· Results in declining productivity

· Traditional and modern agricultural practices have led to declining soil quality, deforestation, accelerated erosion, reduced crop yields, increasing desertifying conditions.

· Preparation of land use and land cover plans

· Mapping and environmental information systems of Natural Resources Management Programme (NRMP)

· National Soil Fertility Action Plan

· National Forest Plantation Development Programme (NFPDP) 2001

· Ratification of UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)

· National Action Programme to Combat Drought and desertification (EPA, 2000)

· Ghana Environmental Management Project (3 Northern Regions)

2. Deforestation

· Marked deterioration of the condition and status of forest

· Forest resources mainly utilized for production of logs for export, fuel-wood extraction, charcoal production and agriculture, the main cause of deforestation

· Inadequate system for monitoring the rate and extent of deforestation

· Forest destruction through mining, bush fires and other poor silvicultural management practices

· Estimated annual forest cover decline of about 70,000 ha.

· Forestry Commission since 1970 has been implementing comprehensive forest protection strategy to restore forest reserves

· About 30 areas (121,156 ha) of protected forests re-designated as Globally Significal Biodiversity Areas (GSBAs)

· Forestry Commission and Private Sector engaged in cultivation of forest plantations (about 94,00 ha in 2004)

· Community-protected areas (CPAs) also called “sacred groves” are available in many communities. EPA has recorded 145 CPAs in Ghana.

· Forest and Wildlife Policy (1994) encourages community involvement in protecting forest resources

3. Biodiversity Loss

· Biological diversity is an indispensable component of natural resource base

· Rich biodiversity in different parts of Ghana – mammals, birds and plants

· Changes in the environment, drought and climate variability are proximate drivers of biodiversity loss

· Economic development and urbanization have resulted in rapid loss of biological diversity

· Current harvest of wildlife for meat is estimated between 225 and 385,000 tons annually

· Various domestic policies, laws and regulations related to conservation and use of biodiversity, e.g. Forestry and Wildlife policy, water resources policy

· Designation of “protected areas” – Six Resource Reserves, Two wildlife Sanctuaries, Seven National Parks, Six Ramsar Sites and many community based sanctuaries

· Ghana is party to many international conventions on biodiversity.

- Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

- CITES

· Projects to conserve biodiversity:

- Northern Savanna Biodiversity Conservation Project

- National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan

4. Water Pollution

· Major sources include: domestic and municipal wastes, agricultural and industrial wastes and other improper land use practices

· Water pollution creates major environmental health problems – spread of disease pathogens which create water-borne diseases

· Marked variation in river water quality for urban and rural settlements due to disposal of liquid and solid waste into water courses

· Awareness creation campaigns for protection of watersheds by government agencies and NGOs

· Impoundments to improve water availability for different uses

· The Community Water and Sanitation Agency (CWSA) is assisting communities in the provision of water and sanitation facilities

· The African Development Bank (AFDB) has sponsored the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project

· Provision of safe water in guinea worm endemic communities

5. Marine and Coastal Degradation

· Marine and coastal areas are under pressure due to: intensive agricultural production, industrial development, salt production, mining and quarrying and urban development

· Sources of pollution are municipal and industrial effluents, agricultural runoffs

· Sea erosion, e.g. Keta and Ada

· Direct investment in control structures, e.g. Keta Sea Defence Project

· Gabions and boulder revetments to arrest erosion

· Mangrove replanting and planting of other vegetative cover, e.g. at Winneba

· Regulatory incentives – fines for illegal mining

· Policy reforms in land use planning and coastal zone management

· Investments in waste treatment and small scale waste collection

6. Mining and Industrial Development

· Mining has been an important industrial activity in the economy of Ghana

· Small-scale mining for gold and diamond has also been important

· Main environmental challenges include land devastation, soil degradation, water and air quality deterioration, noise, visual intrusion and social dislocation

· Mineral Policy and Fiscal Regime

· EIA Procedures

· Reclamation Bonds

· Performance Disclosure Rating System

· Minerals Commission

· NREG Project

7. Urbanization

· Rapid population growth rate (2.2 % pa)

· Regular north-south, rural-urban migration

· Very high housing demand needs

· Impact of over-crowding on human health, poor sanitation, absence of sewage treatment plants

· Lack of planning leading to inordinate growth of cities, e.g. Accra, Kumasi, Tamale

· Encroachment on reserved open spaces and waterways

· Proliferation of unapproved settlements

· Policies and programmes to improve living conditions in rural areas to contain rural-urban migration

· Improvement in urban transport

· Affordable housing projects in the main cities

· Draft Urban Policy in place

· Draft Housing Policy

· Cabinet approval of Environmental Sanitation Policy

· Northern Region Small Towns Water and Sanitation Project

2.2 Emerging issues

These are environmental challenges which have assumed prominence since the publication of the first environmental policy

ISSUE

CHARACTERISTICS

INTERVENTIONS

1. Climate Change

· Global problem with local implications

· Changes in rainfall pattern and impact on agricultural production, unprecedented floods and disasters

· Increased coastal erosion due to sea level rise

· Drought in Sahelian region resulting in southward migration of people and animals

· Climate change and associated health problems

· Guidebook to facilitate the integration of climate change and Disaster Risk Reduction into National Development Policies and Planning prepared

· Ghana is party to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)

· Studies on measures to abate climate change through forestry and Land-use using the Comprehensive Mitigation Analysis Process (COMPAP) model.

· A needs assessment report prepared in fulfillment of decisions of the COP of the UNFCC

· A report with the assistance of the Climate Technology Initiative (CTI) of the OECD lists a number of desired technologies based on national set of criteria: Energy Efficient Lighting, Industrial Energy Efficiency and Land fill Methane Gas Recovery

2. Natural Disasters

· Accra district and some coastal areas have previously experienced earthquakes and continue to experience minor tremors

· Occasional droughts – most severe in 1982/3 with disastrous effects on livelihoods

· Devastating annual floods throughout the country, especially in Greater Accra

· National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) in place

· Seismological stations installed at Weija, Shai Hills, Kukurantumi and Accra

· Educational programmes to create public awareness

· Integrated watershed management to combat desertification

· Korle Lagoon Ecosystem Restoration project

· Byelaws restricting structures in flood-plains, water ways, wetlands, etc.

· Ghana has ascribed to the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) which aims to reduce substantially loss of life as well as the social economic and environmental losses resulting from disasters

· NADMO spends more than 85% of its resources to address issues related to hydro-meteorological disasters

3. Urban Noise

· Motor vehicle congestion and increasing noise levels from sirens and horns

· Commercial activities in markets and at lorry parks

· Industrial noise: factories, mining operations, quarries

· Noise at entertainment and social gatherings – e.g. parties, churches, mosques

· Equipment and engine noise, e.g. generators, corn mills and block moulding machines in residential areas, itinerant musical shops, etc.

· EPA guidelines on permissible ambient noise levels for the country

· Noise levels for residential, educational, commercial and places or worship

· Inability of Municipal/Metropolitan Assemblies to enforce the guidelines

4. Oil and Gas Industry (Petroleum Exploration)

· Oil and Gas industry is new as a result of the Oil discovery in the Jubilee Field (Western Region)

· Areas of concern include

- Oil spills at sea and on land

- Pollution of air, water and land

- Transportation – pipelines, tankers

· International relations

· Coastal ecosystem destruction

· Petroleum Exploration bill before Parliament

· EPA guidelines on petroleum exploration (EIA, ESIA, SEA)

· “Strengthening Environmental Governance of the Oil and Gas Sector in Ghana” programme (EPA)

· Act before Parliament to manage oil resources and income from oil

· GNPC in place

· Ghana is member of Oil for Development (OFD) programme (Norway)

· Jubilee Field EIA

· SEA of Petroleum Sector

5. Invasive Alien Species

· Occur in large water reservoirs – Oti arm of Volta Lake, Tano Basin

· Obstruction water use: fisheries, hydropower generation, transportation

· Invasive Aquatic Weeds Management Project (EPA)

· EPA Water-weed Management in West Africa

· Integrated Management of the Volta River Basin

6. E-Waste

· Sources are: used equipment in the form of computers, copying machines, television sets, mobile phones and electronic equipments

· Rejected in the country of origin and imported into Ghana without regard to their age and degree of usefulness

· No guidelines/manuals on disposal techniques

· No e-waste collection or recycling programme

· Burning of e-waste to retrieve useful parts

· Consequent emissions and toxins cause detrimental impacts on human health and the environment

· Ghana is signatory to the Base Convention and Kyoto Protocol as well as other global treaties for the protection of environment

· EPA Act 1994 (Act 490) provides the principles and mechanisms for integrating good environmental management into all developing activities.

· EPA Act provides framework for waste management through the principles that refer to avoidance or minimization and remediation of pollution, including waste reduction re-use, recycling and proper waste disposal.

7. Chemicals (PCBs)

· Covers all chemicals – except pharmaceuticals

· Increasing use of agro chemicals – pesticides, weedicides, fertilizers

· Potential to cause considerable health and environmental problems – production to end use

· Presence affects the quality of air, soil andwater

· The Factories Offices and Shops Act 328 (1970)

· Draft Policy on Occupational Safety and Health

· Mercury Law (1989)

· Prevention and Control of Pests and Diseases of Plants (Act 307) Infectious Disease Ord. Cap 78

· Licensing of all chemical dealers

Sunday, May 22, 2011

GHANA REVIEWS NEW NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

PART A

1.0 INTRODUCTION

2.3 Loss of Bio-diversity

3.6.1.1 Noise

3.6.1.2 Solid Waste Generation

3.6.1.3 Waste Water Management

3.6.1.4 Ambient Air Quality (Dust)

4.2 MISSION STATEMENT

4.4.3 Capacity Building and Education

4.5.3.1 Strategic Goal 1: Effective Institutional and Legislative Framework

4.5.3.2 Strategic Goal 2: Sustainable Resource Use and Impact Management

4.5.3.3 Strategic Goal 3: Holistic and Integrated Planning

4.5.3.4 Strategic Goal 4: Participation and Coordination in Environmental Governance

4.5.3.5 Strategic Goal 5: Environmental Awareness Creation and Empowerment

4.5.3.6 Strategic Goal 6: Information Management

4.5.3.7 Strategic Goal 7: International Cooperation

SUMMARY OF MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES AND CURRENT MANAGEMENT INTERVENTIONS

2.1 Challenges and management activities

The current environmental challenges and management activities in Ghana have been summarized in the following matrix:

2.2 Emerging issues

These are environmental challenges which have assumed prominence since the publication of the first environmental policy

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