On Thursday, September 11th, 2025, our college community came together for a transformative environmental sustainability program that combined education with direct action. The event featured distinguished presentations from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Forestry Commission of Ghana, followed by a campus-wide tree planting initiative that demonstrated our collective commitment to environmental stewardship.

The program commenced with an enlightening presentation by Mr. Douglas A. Asuako-Ferkah, the Acting Area Head of the Environmental Protection Agency. Speaking on the compelling theme “Ending Plastic Pollution by Repurposing Plastic Use,” Mr. Asuako-Ferkah delivered a comprehensive overview of one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental challenges.

Mr. Asuako-Ferkah began by educating attendees about the fundamental aspects of plastic production and its inherent properties that make it both useful and problematic. He explained how the durability that makes plastic valuable for countless applications also contributes to its persistence in our environment, where it can take hundreds of years to decompose naturally.

The presentation highlighted the far-reaching environmental consequences of plastic pollution, including its impact on marine ecosystems, soil contamination, and threats to wildlife. Participants learned about microplastics and their infiltration into food chains, emphasizing how plastic pollution affects not just the environment but human health as well.

The EPA representative outlined Ghana’s multi-faceted approach to addressing plastic waste and pollution. He detailed current government initiatives, policy frameworks, and regulatory measures designed to reduce plastic consumption and improve waste management systems across the country. This included discussions about the national plastic management policy and ongoing efforts to strengthen waste collection and recycling infrastructure.

A highlight of the presentation was the introduction of the comprehensive 5Rs solution for plastic waste management:

Reduce: Minimizing plastic consumption through conscious choices and alternatives

Reuse: Finding creative ways to extend the life of plastic products

Recycle: Properly processing plastic waste into new products

Responsible Disposal: Ensuring plastic waste is handled through appropriate channels

Raise Awareness: Educating communities about plastic pollution and solutions

Recognizing the diverse academic programs at our institution, Mr. Asuako-Ferkah specifically addressed how health professionals can contribute to the fight against plastic pollution. He emphasized their unique position to educate patients and communities about the health implications of plastic pollution, advocate for sustainable healthcare practices, and promote environmentally conscious behaviors within medical settings.

The second segment of the program featured Mr. Nyantekyi, Head of the Nzema East and Ellembelle Forest Division of the Forestry Commission of Ghana. His presentation focused on the critical importance of forest conservation and sustainable environmental practices.

Mr. Nyantekyi strongly encouraged the college community to prioritize biodegradable plastics and sustainable alternatives in daily operations. He explained how biodegradable materials could significantly reduce environmental impact while maintaining functionality for various applications. This message resonated particularly well with students and staff already exploring sustainable practices in their academic and personal lives.

The Forestry Commission representative emphasized the vital role of trees in environmental sustainability, highlighting their contributions to carbon sequestration, air purification, soil conservation, and biodiversity preservation. He explained how strategic tree planting can help mitigate climate change effects while creating healthier campus environments for learning and living.

In a significant announcement, Mr. Nyantekyi assured the college of the government’s commitment to supporting campus afforestation efforts. He promised that the Forestry Commission would provide seedlings to promote tree-planting initiatives across the college grounds, demonstrating the government’s investment in educational institutions as partners in environmental conservation.

The program’s second phase transformed educational insights into tangible environmental action. Students and staff participated enthusiastically in a campus-wide tree planting exercise, strategically placing trees across college grounds to maximize their environmental and aesthetic benefits.