A call for a deposit return scheme in Ghana: Cleaning up communities, one bottle at a time

In recent years, the issue of plastic pollution has become an undeniable global crisis. From clogged rivers to littered streets and choked oceans, the environmental and societal costs are staggering. For Ghana—a nation blessed with rich biodiversity but increasingly burdened by waste management challenges—the need for innovative solutions is urgent. One such solution that has proven successful worldwide is the implementation of a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for plastic bottles and cans. This policy not only addresses the growing problem of litter but also fosters a cleaner, more sustainable society.

The Problem: Plastic Pollution in Ghana

A total of 8 million tonnes of plastic waste leaks into the ocean each year. By 2050 there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean if we do not take urgent, collective action. Ghana generates approximately 840,000 tonnes of plastic waste per year according to World Economic Forum 2023 report on plastic pollution. Shockingly, less than 5% of this waste is recycled, leaving millions of tons to accumulate in landfills, waterways, and public spaces. In urban centres like Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi, Ho and Tamale, plastic bottles and cans are ubiquitous, contributing significantly to unsightly landscapes and posing health risks to residents.

The impact extends beyond aesthetics. Improperly disposed plastics degrade into microplastics, contaminating soil and water sources. These pollutants harm wildlife, infiltrate food chains, and ultimately affect human health. Additionally, blocked drainage systems caused by plastic waste exacerbate flooding during rainy seasons, endangering lives and property.

While efforts have been made to tackle these issues through education campaigns and recycling initiatives, progress remains slow due to inadequate infrastructure and limited public participation. A more structured approach is needed—one that incentivizes responsible behaviour while ensuring efficient collection and processing of recyclable materials.

What is a Deposit Return Scheme?

A Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is a system where consumers pay a small additional fee—known as a “deposit”—when purchasing beverages in single-use containers such as plastic bottles or aluminium cans. Upon returning the empty container to designated collection points, they will receive their deposit. This simple mechanism creates a financial incentive for individuals to recycle rather than discard used items carelessly.

Countries like Germany, Norway, and Canada have successfully implemented DRS. For instance, Norway boasts a 97% recycling rate for plastic bottles thanks to its well-established DRS. Similarly, in the UK, pilot programs have significantly reduced litter and increased public engagement in recycling activities.

Why Ghana Needs a Deposit Return Scheme

1. Tackling Litter and Protecting Ecosystems

Introducing a DRS would directly address the pervasive problem of litter across Ghana. By encouraging people to return bottles and cans instead of discarding them, the amount of waste accumulating in streets, beaches, and natural habitats would decrease dramatically. Cleaner environments would improve quality of life and safeguard ecosystems and biodiversity.

2. Promoting Circular Economy Practices

A DRS aligns perfectly with the principles of a circular economy, which emphasizes reducing waste and reusing resources. Instead of ending up in landfills or incinerators, returned bottles and cans can be processed and reused, minimizing the demand for virgin materials. This shift reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from producing new packaging.

3. Economic Benefits

Implementing a DRS could create jobs in the waste collection, sorting, and recycling industries. Moreover, informal waste pickers—who often operate under precarious conditions—could benefit from formalized roles within the system, earning stable incomes while contributing to environmental sustainability.

4. Public Health Improvements

Reducing plastic waste means fewer breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other disease vectors. Clean streets and waterways translate to healthier communities, lowering healthcare costs and improving overall well-being.

5. Behavioural Change

The monetary incentive provided by a DRS encourages behavioural change on a large scale. When people see tangible rewards for recycling, they are more likely to adopt eco-friendly habits. Over time, this cultural shift can help dismantle the “throwaway society” mindset and instil a sense of responsibility toward the environment.

Challenges and Solutions

Critics may argue that implementing a DRS requires substantial initial investment in infrastructure, including reverse vending machines and logistics networks. However, international examples demonstrate that long-term benefits outweigh these costs. Governments can partner with private sector stakeholders to share expenses and expertise, ensuring smooth rollout and operation.

Another concern might be public resistance to paying deposits. To counteract this, awareness campaigns should highlight the dual advantages of reduced litter and personal savings upon returning containers. Furthermore, transparent communication about how funds generated from unredeemed deposits will support community projects or environmental conservation efforts can build trust and acceptance.

A Step Forward for Ghana

Introducing a Deposit Return Scheme represents a practical and impactful step toward addressing Ghana’s plastic pollution crisis. By providing financial incentives for proper disposal, fostering a culture of sustainability, and protecting both the environment and public health, a DRS offers a win-win solution for all stakeholders.

The government of Ghana must take decisive action now. With political will, collaboration between public and private entities, and active citizen involvement, Ghana can transform itself into a model for waste management innovation in Africa. Let us embrace this opportunity to clean up our communities, protect our planet, and pave the way for future generations to thrive in a cleaner, greener world.

Together, we can turn the tide against plastic pollution—one bottle at a time.

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The writer, Emmanuel Ashitey, is a Business Sustainability and ESG Analyst and can be contacted via email at [email protected]

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