European Union Demarché Met with Hon. MESTI Minister to Discuss Key Environmental Issues

On October 11th, 2024, a European Union Demarché called on Hon. Ophelia Mensah-Hayford (MP), Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI). The meeting focused on several critical environmental issues, including preparations for the upcoming Biodiversity COP16, discussions on desertification, and the Plastics Treaty under the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC), all in anticipation of COP 29, scheduled for November this year.

During the meeting, Hon. Mensah-Hayford reiterated Ghana’s commitment to actively participating in international discussions aimed at mitigating biodiversity loss and addressing the challenges posed by desertification and plastic pollution. She emphasized the need for robust policies that integrate environmental sustainability into national development agendas. The Minister highlighted Ghana’s proactive initiatives, such as its ongoing efforts in reforestation, land restoration, and waste management, as examples of the country’s dedication to global environmental goals.

The EU delegation acknowledged Ghana’s leadership role in the region and expressed their support for the country’s initiatives. They discussed the importance of international cooperation in achieving the objectives of the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The discussions also touched on potential partnerships between Ghana and the EU to share best practices and technological innovations for tackling climate change and promoting sustainable practices.

Dr. Peter Dery, Director of Environment at MESTI, was also present at the meeting. He provided insights into Ghana’s strategic priorities leading up to COP16 and COP29, detailing the measures being implemented to combat desertification and the importance of transitioning to a circular economy to reduce plastic waste. He noted that engaging local communities and stakeholders was crucial for the successful implementation of environmental policies.

The meeting served as a vital platform for strengthening the relationship between Ghana and the European Union, ensuring that both parties were aligned on key environmental issues and collaborative efforts. Hon. Mensah-Hayford expressed her hope that the discussions would lead to meaningful commitments and partnerships that would enhance Ghana’s capacity to address environmental challenges effectively.

As both parties looked toward the upcoming conferences, the dialogue reaffirmed the necessity of collective action and commitment to environmental sustainability, underscoring the critical role that international cooperation plays in addressing global environmental challenges. The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to continue engaging on these important topics, paving the way for a more sustainable future for Ghana and the global community.