The European Union (EU) in partnership with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation have launched the 2nd edition of the Circular Economy Competition to support Ghana’s gradual transition to a circular economy.
The circular economy competition is a contest that helps small businesses and start-ups in the circular economy in Ghana to become visible and to grow, and to accelerate the transition to a greener, circular economy.
Circular economy means reducing pressure on natural resources and creating sustainable growth and jobs, while tapping into the potential of greener consumer preferences and markets.
“As Ghana seeks to diversify its economy, create export revenue and improve labour and capital productivity, it is also aiming to become a global leader in the transition to circular economy”, said Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI), during the circular economy seminar event in Accra.
He reminded stakeholders about the need for all to contribute to environmental protection by thinking and acting circular at all times, “Transitioning to a circular economy will be advantageous to Ghana and will help the country generate green decent jobs, reduce inequality, minimize the impact of climate change on the environment, and provide the economy with a competitive advantage”
For his part, the EU Ambassador to Ghana, Irchad Razaaly said “Africa is stepping up as a major partner to the EU to achieve these joint ambitions, with a growing number of African countries embracing a circular economy model. The benefits of a circular economy transition in Africa are clear. A continental study shows that, even by adopting a small set of circular economy measures, Africa could increase its combined GDP by 2.2% and create 11 million additional jobs by 2030”
The EU in Ghana cooperates with the Government of Ghana on Circular Economy. It supports skills development and entrepreneurship for green jobs, recycling projects, and green energy in Ghana. Green Growth and Sustainable Cities are main areas of the EU cooperation with Ghana.
The newly appointed EU Goodwill Ambassador, Ms. Victoria Michaels said “More sustainable and greener growth is crucial if we want to achieve greater development in Ghana and protect our climate and environment. Not only do I share this priority with the EU, this is also a personal ambition for me that has been close to my heart for many years”
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM
