Research shows that the extensive use of plastics is increasingly contributing to microplastic pollution globally. These tiny bits of plastic particles, less than 5 millimeters in size, are accumulating rapidly and pose significant long-term threats to marine ecosystems and human health. The limited awareness of microplastics, impedes effective mitigation efforts. 

As we mark World Oceans Day under the theme “Awaken New Depths,” collaborative action is crucial to address the microplastic threat and ensure a healthier ocean for generations to come.

In response to this urgent need, UNDP in Ghana, through its Waste Recovery Platform, raised awareness about the pressing issue of microplastic pollution and catalyzed concerted efforts to combat it.

Professor Chris Gordon, former director of the University of Ghana, Institute for Environment and Sanitation Studies (IESS), emphasized that microplastics are infiltrating marine environments and entering the food chain, raising serious concerns about biodiversity and public health. He stated,

“Microplastics endanger our environment and wildlife. We must prioritize managing them in our waste plans and collaborate on sustainable solutions”

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of findings from a recent research study titled "Additional Burden of Covid-19 Disposable Facemasks (ABCDF) to Ghana’s Plastic Management". This study, commissioned by UNDP in partnership with the Institute for Environment and Sanitation Studies and the Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences of the University of Ghana, examined the environmental impacts of increased Polyphenylene oxide (PPE) use during the pandemic. 

The research revealed that disposable face masks now make up about 2% of macro litter on selected beaches in Ghana, with significant amounts of harmful microplastics found in coastal sediments and water samples.

At the Waste Platform Presentation Series, Sukhrob Khoshmukhamedov, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Ghana, acknowledged the efforts of all stakeholders working at various levels to tackle plastic pollution. 

He emphasized, that more work needs to be done to deepen the understanding of the challenges facing the ocean. He stated that, “by harnessing the power of data, science, and knowledge, we can navigate towards a future of improved ocean health to protect and preserve our oceans. UNDP Ghana will continue to engage and support various stakeholders to explore and tackle plastic pollution, prevent marine litter, and ultimately improve ocean health”.

The webinar, brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ghana National Plastic Action Partnership (NPAP) and the Ghana Recycling Initiative by Private Enterprises (GRIPE). These organizations play a crucial role in fostering collaboration and developing sustainable waste management strategies to combat plastic pollution.

“To tackle plastic pollution, we need, strong policies, dedicated funding and Effective Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes to help in the fight against plastic pollution” noted Kwame Asamoa Mensa-Yawson, Manager of Ghana National Plastic Action Partnership.

Participants included members of the Waste Platform, encompassing academia, the private sector, government, and non-profit organizations. This collaboration underscores the importance of collective action to safeguard our oceans for present and future generations.