The collaborative initiative between the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST) and the French Embassy in Ghana, known as the Valorisation of Waste Plastics for Fuel Production (Valoplatiques) project, has been successfully initiated in the Osu community within the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly (KoKMA).
The project, an outcome of the Technology Transfer and Skill Development Training Project of IAST, aims to address plastic waste challenges in Ghana by recycling plastics into fuel.
Director of the Institute of Applied Science and Technology, Prof. David Dodoo-Arhin, expressed his satisfaction with the launch of the Valoplatiques programme. The primary focus is to convert lower-grade plastics into fuels such as petrol and diesel. Prof. Dodoo-Arhin acknowledged the crucial role played by the French Embassy, Ministry of European Affairs, University of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, as well as the local representatives in supporting this initiative.
Highlighting the severity of the plastic waste issue in Ghana, Prof. Dodoo-Arhin said “the project aligns with the National Plastic Action and the Plastic Circular Economic Framework for Ghana, both aimed at addressing plastic pollution. The Valoplatiques project intends to remediate environmental challenges posed by plastic waste and simultaneously produce domestically and commercially usable fuels.”
He added that the pilot programme, an extension of the Nyansapɔ valorisation project, will involve hands-on training for the youth in the Osu community. He underscored the Institute’s commitment to linking its activities with community development and industry needs.
Mr. Julian Lucas, Head of Corporation at the French Embassy in Ghana, who represented the French Ambassador, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration between French and Ghanaian universities. He highlighted the importance of the Ghanaian population in their embassy’s duties. Mr. Julian Lucas recognised the persistent issue of plastic waste in communities and commended the Valoplatiques project as a practical solution, foreseeing benefits, especially in terms of employment, for the Osu community.
The Member of Parliament for the Klottey Korle Constituency, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, emphasised the community’s vital role in the programme’s success. She called for cooperation from community members, stressing that the project’s success would determine its expansion after the pilot phase. Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings encouraged community engagement, urging residents to contribute ideas for the project’s success and assuring them of both scientific and commercial aspects that would benefit the community.
The launch concluded with a symbolic libation pouring and sod-cutting session, marking the official commencement of the Valoplatiques project. Dignitaries present included Nii Adams Sorse II, Osu Chief; Nii Aniefi VI, Gyaasetse; Nii Djamloja VI, Osu Chief Fisherman; traditional leaders; members of the Osu community; faculty, staff and students of the University.
