Environment Minister-Designate Pledges Action on Waste Management, Climate Change and Hazardous Chemicals
Minister-designate for Environment, Science and Technology, Hon. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has outlined a number of measures aimed at strengthening environmental protection, improving waste management and addressing the growing effects of climate change in Ghana.
The Klottey-Korle Member of Parliament made the commitments when she appeared before the Appointments Committee of Parliament for her vetting.
Focus on Waste Management and Environmental Protection
Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings highlighted the need for Ghana to improve the management of both solid waste and sewage as part of efforts to protect the environment and improve public health.
She also indicated that government would explore innovative approaches to dealing with plastic waste, including opportunities to convert plastic waste into fuel.
According to the Minister-designate, effective waste management remains critical to addressing environmental challenges facing communities across the country.
Ghana to Explore Carbon Market Opportunities
On climate action, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings said Ghana would explore opportunities in carbon dioxide trading through the development of a carbon market.
She noted that support from the World Bank could help Ghana strengthen its response to the effects of climate change and develop mechanisms that allow the country to benefit from emerging opportunities in carbon markets.
Tighter Monitoring of Hazardous Chemicals
The Minister-designate also pledged to strengthen monitoring at Ghana’s various ports of entry to track chemicals being brought into the country.
She said stronger monitoring would help authorities identify and manage potentially hazardous substances entering Ghana.
She further proposed monitoring underground water, soil and farms to assess the spread and environmental impact of mercury.
Zanetor Calls for Responsible AI Regulation
Commenting on the growing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings stressed the importance of establishing appropriate legislative safeguards.
She said human oversight would remain important in ensuring transparency and accountability, particularly in the activities of public institutions and government agencies.
The Minister-designate emphasized that technological advancement should be accompanied by appropriate safeguards to protect public interest and ensure responsible use.
Commitment to Environmental Action
The proposals presented during her parliamentary vetting highlight key areas including waste management, climate action, hazardous chemical monitoring and responsible technology governance.
If approved, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings is expected to play a key role in shaping Ghana’s environmental, science and technology policies.