EPA Raises Red Flag on Industry and Transport Pollution

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has sounded the alarm over rising pollution levels in several parts of the country, citing industrial and transport activities as the main contributors.

Selena Amoah, Head of the EPA’s Environmental Quality Unit, told reporters that while some monitoring stations continue to record pollution within acceptable standards, other areas are showing a worrying upward trend. She pointed out that large-scale manufacturing, food processing, and cement production, alongside smaller operations near densely populated communities, are driving the increase.

“The transport sector also contributes significantly, through both exhaust and non-exhaust emissions,” Ms. Amoah explained, noting that combined, these sources are putting pressure on air quality in affected areas and creating potential health risks for residents.

Ms. Amoah highlighted that the EPA is now operating under a new regulatory framework, Act 1124, which consolidates previous laws, including the Pesticides Control and Management Act and the Act on Hazardous and Electronic Waste. The updated legislation integrates climate change considerations and expands the agency’s authority to regulate, oversee, and enforce environmental standards.

“Under Act 1124, we now have clear mandates covering industrial air emissions, open burning, and motor vehicle emissions. The law also provides sanctions for non-compliance to ensure accountability,” she said.

The EPA official stressed that the new framework is critical for protecting public health and the environment. She urged industries and transport operators to strictly adhere to environmental guidelines and noted that ongoing monitoring and stricter enforcement will be essential in curbing rising pollution levels.

Ms. Amoah’s remarks come amid growing concern from communities affected by industrial and vehicular pollution, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated action between government agencies, businesses, and the public.

Experts say that rising pollution not only affects air quality but also poses risks to human health and can contribute to environmental degradation. With Act 1124 now in effect, the EPA aims to ensure compliance with environmental standards, while promoting sustainable industrial practices and cleaner transport solutions.

The agency’s warnings underscore the importance of proactive measures to manage pollution and protect both public health and the environment, calling on all stakeholders to take responsibility for maintaining cleaner air across the country.