Understanding the Impact of Waste on Health and Environment
Trash disposal is a critical issue that affects not only the environment but also public health. Diseases such as lung disease, typhoid, cancer, and malaria can be linked to improper waste management. Littering, in particular, has been shown to have detrimental effects on communities. So, what can be done about it? And how can we “fix this”?
The good news is that there are positive developments happening globally. Research has shown that the use of renewable energy has increased significantly over the past decade. In fact, some reports indicate that sustainable energy sources have surpassed coal usage this year.
The Real Deal: Eco-Awareness and Challenges
Eco-awareness has been gaining momentum for years. From the first Earth Day celebration in 1970 in the United States to the first trashion show in New Zealand in 2004, awareness around environmental issues has grown. In Ghana, eco-focused brands are emerging, showcasing creativity and talent. For example, MckingtorchAfrica has created the first school desk and chair made entirely from recycled plastics, specifically sachet wrappers.
However, being eco-aware is not without its challenges. Recycling in Ghana is limited, with only about five percent of waste being recycled. This low rate is due to the lack of a nationwide system for waste sorting, collection, and recycling. Additionally, the inconvenience of recycling, such as cost and inadequate facilities, makes it difficult for people to participate.
Why Recycling Matters
Recycling is a powerful tool for transforming waste into something useful. Food waste can become rich fertilizer, glass waste can be turned into beautiful Krobo beads, and sachet wrappers can be used to make afro combs. Even plastics can be converted into fuel through a process called pyrolysis. Imagine a Ghana where instead of burning plastics, they are donated to institutions that can make better use of them.
Ghana has several eco-friendly policies, organizations, and individuals working towards a greener future. Some examples include:
- Policy: The Environmental Sanitation Policy (1999)
- Corporate: Zoomlion
- Start-up: BioGreen Ghana
- Creative: Buzstop Boys
- Tech: Ghana E-waste Ltd.
These entities demonstrate that Ghana is making progress toward a more sustainable future.
Turning Trash into Treasure
Most people don’t think of treasure when they hear the word “trash,” but it’s possible. Mass recycling is one way to make a difference, but there are other steps individuals can take daily to contribute to a greener world.
The 3 R’s—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—are key strategies:
- Reduce: This could involve carrying your own bottle to avoid buying water, cooking smaller portions to reduce food waste, or purchasing high-quality items that last longer.
- Reuse: Donating old clothes, using jars as piggy banks, or repairing broken items instead of discarding them.
- Recycle (D.I.Y. version): Creating art from bottle caps, sorting waste at home, or turning banana peels into fertilizer.
The Future is Now
While there are positive developments, the health of the planet is declining rapidly. Although efforts to address environmental issues have been strong, the response has been too late. As long as the moon is not a viable place for human habitation, we are all stuck on this planet until it’s time to leave.
It may be inconvenient to save, reduce usage, use sustainable materials, recycle, and support initiatives, but these actions are necessary for future generations. Making an effort today can lead to blue skies and green landscapes tomorrow.
Whether it’s starting an initiative or simply politely refusing a harmful plastic bag, every action counts. Share your eco-friendly steps and help create a better future.
Contact me at elinegadwrites@gmail.com to share the eco-friendly steps you’ve taken to impact your community.
This article is dedicated to Uncle Atsu Gad and Aunty Barbara Yacuzzi for their unwavering support and encouragement.
The writer is a 13-year-old student, writer, and literacy advocate. She is a member of her school’s newsletter club and the founder of Titanic Beach Readers, a community reading program aimed at helping children in her neighborhood fall in love with books. Eline is passionate about storytelling, empathy, and helping kids discover their voices through reading. Through her writing, she shares her thoughts and experiences from a young person’s perspective, speaking to both children and adults with honesty, curiosity, and hope.
