MENU
back
en
Ghana, like many developing nations, is grappling with a mounting waste management crisis. Rapid urbanization, population growth, and limited infrastructure have led to inefficient systems for collecting, sorting, and processing waste. As a result, large volumes of waste—particularly plastic—end up in landfills, waterways, or are openly burned, posing serious health and environmental risks. These challenges underscore the urgent need for innovative and collaborative approaches to waste management, particularly through sustainable recycling and circular economy practices.
In response to these pressing issues, Swisscontact Ghana (SC Ghana), through its Umbrella Approach, is fostering strategic partnerships across thematic areas to tackle global development challenges. One of the core pillars of this approach is recycling, aimed at addressing the country’s waste crisis through knowledge sharing, collaboration, and capacity building.
As part of its commitment to promoting sustainability, SC Ghana, in collaboration with the Swiss Embassy Ghana and the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), organized a high-level event titled "Zero Waste to Landfill – It Is Possible." Held at the residence of the Swiss Ambassador on Tuesday, 18th March 2024, the dialogue brought together environmental advocates, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to explore innovative solutions to Ghana’s waste challenges.
The event featured Dr. Isabelle Chevalley, a former Swiss parliamentarian and long-time environmental advocate, as the keynote speaker. With years of experience implementing sustainable development projects in Africa, Dr. Chevalley delivered a powerful message on the intersection of climate change, recycling, and circular economy practices.
She emphasized the health and environmental dangers of improper waste disposal.
Her presentation provided practical strategies for converting waste into economic opportunities, reinforcing the idea that sustainability is not just environmentally responsible—it also fosters job creation and economic growth.
Magdalena Wüst, Head of Cooperation, A.I. at the Swiss Embassy in Ghana, also delivered a keynote address. She highlighted the urgency of embracing zero-waste principles.
She emphasized Switzerland’s successful implementation of circular economy policies and encouraged similar frameworks in Ghana to reduce waste, create green jobs, and preserve natural resources.
A representative from AGI underscored the vital role of industry collaboration in achieving sustainability goals. He stated, “Together, we are building a stronger, more sustainable industrial sector, ensuring Ghana stays ahead in the global shift towards a low-carbon economy.”
AGI’s involvement highlights the importance of engaging the private sector in environmental efforts, particularly in developing scalable recycling solutions and sustainable supply chains.
The dialogue sparked a vibrant exchange of ideas, with participants sharing innovative approaches to waste management tailored to the Ghanaian context. The presence of passionate individuals from diverse sectors reinforced the collective commitment to environmental stewardship.
Through its Umbrella Approach, Swisscontact Ghana continues to play a leading role in addressing Ghana’s waste management challenges. By focusing on key areas such as enhancing the waste value chain, wastewater treatment, and community-level waste solutions, SC Ghana is laying the groundwork for long-term, sustainable impact.
Events like the Zero Waste to Landfill dialogue are crucial platforms for knowledge dissemination and stakeholder engagement, further positioning Swisscontact as a catalyst for change in Ghana’s journey toward a circular economy.