Earth Day: CCCFS promotes the adoption of ceramics to combat plastic pollution

The Center for Climate Change & Food Security (CCCFS), a non-governmental organization, is advocating the adoption of ceramic materials for household use as the country combats the devastating effects of plastic pollution.

Although endemic to some small towns and villages in the northern regions of Ghana, the use of ceramics has not been encouraging since the introduction of plastics that have been found to be harmful to the environment.

In a newsletter, Executive Director of CCCFS, Engr Mahmud Mohammed-Nurudeen, stressed that reviving the practice could significantly reduce Ghana’s dependence on plastic.

“CCCFS draws inspiration from India’s successful adoption of ceramic materials for drinking water, especially in states like Rajasthan, and emphasizes the need for a return to traditional, sustainable practices,” he said.

This follows the global celebration of Earth Day with the theme ‘Planet vs. Plastics, highlighting the enormous negative impact of single-use plastics on our environment’.

Ghana produces about 0.84 million tons of plastic waste annually, with an annual average increase of 5.4%, according to official data.

Population growth is assumed to be proportional to plastic waste, with an annual projection of 2.2%.

The amount of plastic consumed per person is also increasing by 3.4% annually.

Despite efforts by government, industry and civil society, plastic waste in water bodies is expected to increase by 190% between 2020 and 2040.

The influx of plastic threatens human existence and the ecosystem, including polluting oceans and waterways, harming marine life and contributing to climate change.

Engr Mohammed-Nurudeen revealed the harmful effects of the organic materials on the food chain, ultimately threatening human health.

“…some of this plastic waste ultimately enters the food chain and poses a significant risk to human health. When plastic waste breaks down into smaller pieces, known as microplastics, they can be ingested by small marine animals, which are then consumed by larger animals, and possibly even humans.

“This means that plastic pollution can contaminate the food we eat, which can have harmful health effects,” he said.

CCCFS is concerned that many Ghanaians are still unaware of the harmful effects of plastic waste.

“The impact of plastic pollution on our environment, our health and our economy cannot be overstated. We must take immediate action to reduce plastic waste and adopt sustainable practices. We owe it to ourselves, our children and future generations to take action now. “

The center wants a drastic reduction in plastic production by petrochemical companies.

“CCCFS calls on petrochemical companies, policymakers and individuals to join forces in the fight against plastic pollution. Together we can make a difference and create a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable future for all,” said Engr Mohammed-Nurudeen.

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