Ghana’s New Incinerator Faces Public Opposition Over Health Fears

Ghana’s New Incinerator Faces Public Opposition Over Health Fears

Accra, Ghana – Ghana’s government’s plan to construct a modern waste incinerator in Accra has been met with widespread public opposition. Concerns about its potential health and environmental impacts have been raised, leading to calls for the project’s suspension until adequate safety measures are addressed.

Health & Environmental Concerns

Critics of the project raise a number of health and environmental concerns:

• Air pollution: Incineration releases harmful pollutants including dioxins and furans, known carcinogens, raising fears of increased respiratory illnesses and cancer risks among residents.
• Greenhouse gas emissions: Burning waste emits greenhouse gases such as methane and carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change.
• Waste reduction potential: Incineration reduces waste reduction, raising concerns about the potential for increased landfill waste.
• Lack of public participation: The process of project approval lacked extensive public consultation and engagement.

Community Concerns & Displacement

The planned incinerator’s location in Accra’s Bortianor community has faced backlash. Residents express fear of:

• Loss of livelihoods: The area is home to a majority of fishermen and farmers who worry the project will harm their access to the beach and agricultural lands.
• Displacement and migration: Concerns exist about the potential displacement of local residents due to the project.

Government Responses

The government maintains that the project will significantly improve Accra’s sanitation and waste management.

• The government claims the incinerator will use state-of-the-art technology to mitigate pollution risks.
• They also emphasize waste reduction and resource recovery plans.

Movement for Suspension

Organisations such as the Medical Association of Ghana and the Environmental Justice Network Ghana call for the project’s suspension until:

• Adequate environmental impact assessments are conducted.
• Proper public consultations and community agreements are reached.
• Alternative waste management solutions such as recycling and composting are explored.

Next Steps

The Ghana Environmental Protection Agency is investigating the project and will submit a report to the government in due course. Community groups and activists hope this report will address their concerns and lead to a suspension of the project until the necessary measures are in place.

FAQs

1. Will the incinerator mitigate Accra’s waste problem?

The government argues that the incinerator will significantly reduce Accra’s waste, but critics dispute its effectiveness and potential environmental consequences.

2. What measures are being taken to address air pollution concerns?

The government claims to employ cutting-edge technology to mitigate air pollution, but questions remain about its efficacy.

3. Has adequate public consultation been done?

Critics claim the process lacked sufficient transparency and community involvement. The government needs to improve consultation and address community concerns.