Ghana's Air Pollution: Who's Report And Insights

Air pollution is a serious issue in Ghana, causing approximately 28,000 premature deaths annually, according to the World Health Organization. It is the second most significant health risk factor in the country, after malnutrition. The main sources of indoor air pollution are smoke from indoor stoves and fires, particularly in traditional or low-income homes. Open waste burning, cooking with wood and charcoal, road transport, and industrial activities are also major contributors to poor air quality. To address this issue, various organizations and media houses are working to raise awareness and advocate for clean air solutions. For instance, the Clean Air Fund is collaborating with municipal assemblies in Accra to improve air quality, and journalists supported by New Narratives are producing people-centred stories on air pollution to engage the public and influence decision-makers. Additionally, traditional and electronic media houses in Ghana, such as Daily Graphic, Myjoyonline, and Peace FM, have increased their coverage of air pollution issues, with a focus on health, environmental concerns, and policy matters.

The role of Ghanaian media in reporting air pollution

Air pollution is a serious issue in Ghana, causing approximately 28,000 premature deaths annually and posing a significant threat to public health. It is primarily caused by open waste burning, cooking with wood and charcoal, road transport, slash-and-burn farming, energy generation, accidental fires, and industrial activities. Poor air quality disproportionately affects young children, adults over 50, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing health conditions or compromised immune systems.

The role of the Ghanaian media in reporting on air pollution is crucial in raising awareness, educating the public, and influencing decision-makers to take action. Media outlets such as newspapers, radio stations, and online platforms have increasingly recognised the importance of covering air pollution issues. Traditional print media houses like Daily Graphic, Daily Guide, and Ghanaian Times, as well as electronic media such as Myjoyonline and Peacefm, have all contributed to the growing discourse on air pollution in Ghana.

The focus of media reporting on air pollution in Ghana has evolved to include not just the causes but also the impact and policy implications. Media outlets have highlighted various factors contributing to air pollution, such as waste burning, cooking methods, traffic emissions, and small-scale gold mining. They have also drawn attention to the health risks associated with poor air quality, particularly for vulnerable groups. By doing so, the media plays a crucial role in informing the public about the potential dangers and impacts of air pollution on their daily lives.

Additionally, the Ghanaian media has played an active role in advocating for policy changes and improvements in air quality management. For example, journalists supported by the Clean Air Fund's New Narratives programme have published over 128 people-centred stories, radio programmes, and podcasts on air pollution, resonating with the public and influencing decision-makers. The media's coverage of air pollution has likely contributed to the increasing local, national, and international efforts to improve air quality in Ghana.

While the Ghanaian media has made significant strides in reporting on air pollution, there is still room for improvement. Some studies have suggested that the level, placement, and style of news reports on air pollution may not always be sufficient to create the desired level of public awareness and stir public discourse. Nonetheless, with a growing focus on investigative journalism and human-interest stories, the Ghanaian media continues to play a pivotal role in shedding light on air pollution issues and driving positive change in the country.

Air pollution in Accra

Air pollution is a significant issue in Accra, Ghana's capital city, and the second biggest threat to health in the country. According to the World Health Organization, 28,000 premature deaths are recorded every year as a result of air pollution in Ghana, with young children and adults over 50 most at risk.

The main sources of indoor air pollution in Accra are smoke from indoor stoves and fires, particularly in traditional or low-income homes. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are also a prominent source of indoor air pollution. These compounds, such as toluene, styrene, xylene, methylene chloride, and formaldehyde, can be released from materials like paint, varnish, and glue. Black carbon, the main component in soot, is another dangerous indoor air pollutant, as it absorbs solar radiation and converts it to heat, contributing to climate change.

Outdoor air pollution in Accra is largely caused by industrial and anthropogenic activities, including trash burning, road traffic, and farming methods. Pollutants such as mercury, lead, cadmium, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, dioxins, and furans are present in the air. The annual average concentration of particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution in Ghana was 11 times higher than the World Health Organization's recommended levels in 2019. PM2.5 refers to fine particulates that are less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter and pose significant health risks.

In 2020, Accra recorded a yearly PM2.5 average of 26.9 μg/m³, which is considered 'moderate' pollution. However, there were months with much higher pollution levels, such as January and February, which had readings of 59.8 μg/m³ and 43.4 μg/m³, respectively, falling into the 'unhealthy' bracket. Mid-2021 also saw elevated readings, with a US AQI rating of 89, still within the 'moderate' range.

Efforts to address air pollution in Accra are underway. The Clean Air Fund's Breathe Accra initiative has established a network of low-cost sensors and reference monitors to provide real-time air pollution data to the public. Additionally, the GhanaThink Foundation is building a movement of young campaigners to advocate for clean air, and journalists are producing investigative reports to raise awareness and influence policymakers.

The impact of air pollution on health

Air pollution is a severe health risk in Ghana, causing approximately 28,000 premature deaths annually, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The high levels of particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution, which are 11 times higher than the recommended concentration by WHO for 2021, pose significant dangers to public health. The impact of air pollution on health can be understood through the following points:

Cardiac and Respiratory Issues:

Prolonged exposure to air pollution can lead to serious cardiac and pulmonary complications. The fine particulates in the air, known as PM2.5, pose the greatest health risks. These particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and cause irritation and inflammation. Vulnerable groups, including young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly susceptible to respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and other lung diseases.

Indoor Air Pollution:

Indoor air pollution is a significant concern, especially in traditional or low-income homes. The use of indoor stoves and fires for cooking and heating contributes to poor air quality indoors. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from materials like varnishes, glues, and paints can remain in the air even at low temperatures, posing long-term health risks. Black carbon, a component of soot, is highly irritating to inhale and has climate-changing properties due to its ability to absorb solar radiation and convert it into heat.

Outdoor Air Pollution Sources:

Outdoor air pollution in Ghana is largely attributed to open waste burning, road transport, farming practices, energy generation, accidental fires, and industrial activities. The burning of trash and the use of wood and charcoal for cooking release harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. Mercury, lead, cadmium, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, dioxins, and furans are some of the dangerous pollutants found in the air. Ozone (O3) is another prominent outdoor pollutant formed when oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and other gases react with sunlight.

Health Risks and Vulnerable Populations:

The health risks associated with air pollution disproportionately affect certain vulnerable populations. In addition to young children and the elderly, those with pre-existing illnesses or compromised immune systems are at a higher risk of adverse health effects. Pregnant women are also considered a vulnerable group, as air pollution exposure can potentially impact the health of both mother and fetus.

Initiatives to Address Air Pollution:

Efforts to address air pollution in Ghana are underway, with initiatives like the Clean Air Fund's Breathe Accra project, which has established a network of low-cost sensors and reference monitors to provide real-time air pollution data to the public. Additionally, journalist fellows from New Narratives have published people-centred stories and programmes to raise awareness and influence decision-makers. The GhanaThink Foundation is also building a movement of young campaigners to advocate for clean air to residents and political leaders. These initiatives aim to catalyse the clean air movement and advocate for solutions to improve air quality, thereby reducing the health impacts of air pollution on Ghanaians.

The sources of air pollution

Air pollution is the second most significant health risk in Ghana, causing 28,000 premature deaths annually, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The annual average concentration of particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution in Ghana in 2019 was 11 times higher than the WHO's recommended levels for 2021. Poor air quality in Ghana is largely caused by the following sources:

Open Waste Burning

Open waste burning is a significant contributor to air pollution in Ghana. The Green Africa Youth Organization's Zero Waste Accra project aims to address this issue by collaborating with waste pickers and informal workers to remove organic, plastic, and electronic waste that would otherwise be burned or end up in landfills.

Cooking with Wood and Charcoal

The traditional use of wood and charcoal for cooking is a major source of indoor air pollution in Ghana. Modern, cleaner cooking technologies and fuel alternatives can help reduce this type of pollution.

Road Transport

Road transport, particularly in congested cities like Accra, is a significant source of air pollution. Privately owned vehicles, as well as the large number of unpaved roads, contribute to high levels of exhaust fumes and resuspended dust, respectively. Initiatives such as the Ghana Urban Mobility and Accessibility Project aim to improve public transport and reduce vehicle emissions.

Slash-and-Burn Farming

The slash-and-burn method of farming, which involves clearing land by cutting down vegetation and burning it, releases large amounts of smoke and pollutants into the air. Alternative land-clearing methods and agricultural practices can help reduce this source of air pollution.

Energy Generation and Industrial Activities

Inefficient and outdated energy generation practices, as well as industrial emissions, contribute significantly to outdoor air pollution in Ghana. Ghana has made strides in addressing this issue by including air pollution in its National Greenhouse Gas Inventory and publishing a National Action Plan to mitigate short-lived climate pollutants.

Efforts to reduce air pollution

Air pollution is a severe issue in Ghana, causing 28,000 premature deaths annually and significantly impacting health, particularly among young children and adults over 50. It is mainly caused by open waste burning, cooking methods using wood and charcoal, road transport, and industrial activities. Ghana has taken several crucial steps to address this problem and improve air quality for its citizens:

Policy Initiatives and International Cooperation

Ghana has been actively involved in international efforts to combat climate change and air pollution. As a founding partner of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), Ghana has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs). The country has developed ambitious national action plans, pledging to lower emissions by 15% by 2030 and exploring additional reductions with external funding. Ghana's National Climate Change Policy includes methane reduction strategies, landfill diversion, and recycling initiatives to reduce solid and liquid waste in urban areas.

Urban Health Initiatives and Monitoring

Accra, the capital city of Ghana, has been at the forefront of urban health initiatives to reduce air pollution. Through the Urban Health Initiative and collaboration with the World Bank, Ghana's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can continuously monitor particulate matter and black carbon. This has led to minute-by-minute measurements of air pollution, helping authorities identify effective interventions. Accra has also joined the CCAC's Breathelife campaign, raising awareness within local communities to reduce waste burning and promote green spaces.

Community Engagement and Education

Ghana has recognised the importance of community engagement and education in tackling air pollution. The Ghana Health Services and Ghana EPA convened a steering committee of local experts to measure the health and economic impacts of air pollution policies. Various community workshops have targeted vulnerable groups, connecting them with academics to improve data collection and education about air pollution prevention. One such project resulted in the shutdown of a chronic industrial polluter.

Solid Waste Management and Composting

In 2013, a solid waste-to-compost programme was initiated through a partnership between the local government and private businesses. This programme has produced thousands of tonnes of compost annually, creating jobs and providing an agricultural fertiliser alternative. The Hazardous and Electronic Waste Control and Management Act of 2016 banned e-waste burning, and the Local Governance Act of the same year empowered local governments to stop open burning practices.

Clean Cooking Technologies

Recognising that about 70% of households cook with biomass, charcoal, or crop residue, Ghana has invested in promoting clean cookstoves and alternative cooking technologies. Projects such as emLab's initiative aim to improve public health, women's empowerment, and environmental quality by encouraging the adoption of clean cooking technologies to reduce household air pollution.

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