The Minister for Science, Technology, and Innovation, Ophelia Mensah Hayford, has announced that the government of Ghana is exploring the development of policies to phase out harmful chemicals and emissions that pose risks to both human health and the environment.
During an interview with the press at the launch of the Agroecology and Circular Economy for Ecosystem Services (ACE4ES) event, organized by CSIR-CRI and funded by the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), on event’s theme, “Adopting Agroecology and Circular Economy for Emission Reduction in Maize and Rice Production,” Ophelia Mensah Hayford emphasized the importance of adopting sustainable practices and the government’s commitment to promoting environmentally friendly initiatives.
She expressed her support for the ACE4ES project, noting that it will help reduce the use of harmful chemicals in maize and rice production, ultimately benefiting both the environment and human health.
“Whenever Scientists research and bring up a project, it informs policy decision-making. Consequently, the government is eager to develop policies aimed at phasing out harmful chemicals and emissions that pose risks to human health,” she explained.
Adding that, “We’re going to go by the ACE4ES Project to keep the rich nutrients in our lands. And by so doing we can also live longer.”
Madam Ophelia Mensah Hayford urged all Ghanaians to actively promote the CSIR-CRI innovation to reduce the use of harmful chemicals that have negative impacts on both humanity and the environment.
“Let’s all campaign vigorously against harmful chemicals that affect humanity and the environment (lands).” She entreated.
Dr. Onwona-Hwesofour, the Lead and Principal Investigator of the ACE4ES, revealed that the primary goal of the project is to reduce emissions in rice and maize production, as well as decrease black carbon levels that contribute to hot weather conditions in Ghana and across Africa.
The ACE4ES project is set to span two years, with the first year focusing on implementation in Ghana, followed by expansion to Benin, Nigeria, and Tanzania in the second year.
Dr. Onwona-Hwesofour also mentioned that there are plans to extend the ACE4ES project to other African countries beyond the initial two-year period, pending additional funding from foreign nations.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com / Joseph Marfo
