The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) has developed comprehensive environmental standards for industries and manufacturers to follow, focusing on emission control, waste management, and resource efficiency.
The standards include Water and Air Quality, which provides measurable guidelines for companies to adhere to in order to minimize pollution. Also, Renewable Energy Standards which the GSA has actively promoted the adoption of standards for renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. Enabling the country to transition to a low-carbon economy while addressing the energy needs of the growing population.
The Director General, of Ghana the Standards Authority, Prof. Alex Dodoo, said the Authority is working with local and international partners to raise awareness, build capacity, and drive the adoption of environmentally friendly standards across all sectors.
Speaking at the 2024 World Standards Day (WSD), Prof. Dodoo said the Authority has worked with stakeholders to ensure that industries implement cleaner production techniques and minimize their environmental footprint.
Prof. Dodoo said the GSA is also collaborating with the Minerals Commission and other regulatory bodies to implement standards that promote responsible mining with a focus on environmental restoration, ensuring that mined lands are rehabilitated and that water sources remain uncontaminated.
The GSA has also introduced standards for the use of biodegradable materials in packaging and stricter regulations on plastic waste management.
This initiative is crucial in reducing plastic waste, which is choking our environment. One of the largest environmental threats in Ghana is plastic pollution from traders.
He said the fight against climate change and environmental degradation can not be waged by one institution alone and requires a collective effort from government, industries, civil society, and individuals.
Prof. Dodoo stressed the importance of enforcing environmental standards, specifically the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 14001 series, to ensure companies operate sustainably.
“We are pushing hard to make these standards mandatory, so that all mining companies have certified management systems to protect the environment,” he added.
He emphasized that collaboration with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is crucial in making these standards compulsory.
The Director of the Standards Directorate, Mrs Regina Vowotor, said the Authority is committed to raising awareness on how standards can help mitigate climate impacts and guide industries toward climate-conscious practices.
She underscored the power of collaboration, saying, “The entire standard system is built on cooperation. Together, we can accelerate progress toward the 2030 agenda.”
However, World Standards Day is celebrated annually in October to honour the joint efforts of numerous experts across the world who voluntarily develop the technical agreements which are issued as international, regional, or national Standards.
