The Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MEST) has disbursed $331,606 to Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to support the implementation of the Plastic Circular Economy Project.
The 7 million dollar project aims to promote a circular economy approach to plastic waste management in Ghana, with a focus on reducing plastic waste, increasing recycling, and creating jobs.
the project, funded by the Global Environment Facility and implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) has earmarked a total of 4.35 million dollar for small and medium enterpreises to pilot projects to advance Ghana’s circular economy framework.
Beneficiary companies are Coliba waste management Services Limited, McKingtorch Africa, Nelplast Eco Ghana ltd, Integrated Recycling and Compost Plant Limited (IRECOP)/ Zoomlion, and Maintenance Sustainability Africa, Consortium (Asase), Consortium (Sesa), UPPR, Pure Home Water and Consortium (city waste Recycling).
According to the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed the project is expected to create at least 7,000 jobs in the short to medium term, with a significant number of these jobs going to young people and women.
The first tranche of the funding was disbursed to 10 SMEs, which will use the funds to develop innovative solutions for plastic waste management, including recycling, composting, and upcycling.
The project is part of the government’s efforts to promote a circular economy approach to waste management, reduce the country’s reliance on single-use plastics, and create jobs and economic opportunities for Ghanaians.
The MEST has also partnered with other government agencies, private sector organizations, and civil society groups to support the implementation of the project and ensure its success.
Story By: Emmanuel Coffie
