Environmental Education

Proper waste disposal is critical for environmental health. Household waste should be separated into organic and inorganic categories. Hazardous waste such as batteries, electronics, and chemicals must be taken to designated collection points. Open burning of waste is prohibited under Ghana's environmental regulations. Community waste bins should be used, and illegal dumping sites should be reported immediately.

Ghana's water bodies are protected under the Water Resources Commission Act. Dumping of industrial waste, chemicals, or sewage into rivers, streams, or the ocean is a criminal offense. Citizens should report any discoloration, foul smell, or dead fish in water bodies. Agricultural runoff containing pesticides and fertilizers also constitutes water pollution and should be reported.

The EPA monitors air quality across Ghana's major cities and industrial zones. Key pollutants include particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide. Factories and vehicles must meet emission standards set by the EPA. Excessive smoke from burning, industrial stacks, or vehicle exhaust are violations that can be reported through this platform.

Ghana's forests are protected under the Forestry Commission Act and Timber Resources Management Act. Illegal chainsaw operations, unauthorized timber harvesting, and encroachment on forest reserves are serious offenses. The EPA works with the Forestry Commission to combat deforestation. Citizens living near forest areas are encouraged to report any suspicious logging activities.

All industrial operations in Ghana require environmental permits from the EPA. Factories must comply with emission limits and proper waste treatment before discharge. Hazardous material spills must be reported immediately as they pose severe risks to public health and the environment. The EPA maintains a rapid response team for hazardous material incidents.