Ghana has declared its commitment to reshaping the built environment through the use of sustainable and environmentally friendly materials. Dr. Prince Hamid Armah, Member of Parliament for Kwesimintsim and advisor to the Minister for Works and Housing, at a stakeholders meeting made this known and emphasized the urgent need for sustainable construction practices across the nation.
The workshop, titled “Transforming Ghana’s Built Environment through Sustainable Materials,” brought together industry leaders, policy makers, and environmental experts to discuss the roadmap towards a more resilient and environmentally friendly construction sector. Dr. Armah extended warm greetings from Hon. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the Minister for Works and Housing, who was unable to attend due to other commitments.
Dr. Armah highlighted the environmental challenges posed by rapid urbanization and the construction sector’s significant contributions to global carbon emissions. Citing the United Nations Environment Programme’s 2022 report, he pointed out that the sector is responsible for over a third of global energy-related carbon emissions. “The built environment not only defines our physical space but also reflects our values and culture,” Dr. Armah stated, underscoring the impact of construction on natural resources and waste generation.
The initiative, launched in November 2023, aims to reduce the environmental footprint of building practices through the adoption of energy-efficient systems, green building certifications, and sustainable materials. The workshop outlined a series of strategic approaches to minimize environmental damage, including innovations in sustainable urban planning and green building materials.
The workshop concluded with Dr. Armah calling for collective action among stakeholders to implement the strategies discussed. “This is not merely a platform for discussion; it is a call to action. We must engage actively and share expertise to shape a sustainable, resilient built environment in Ghana,” he urged attendees.
The Ministry of Works and Housing, in collaboration with UN-Habitat and UNOPs, plans to continue promoting sustainability initiatives that align with Ghana’s development goals and ensure a healthier, sustainable future for all citizens.
