Somochem and Mohinani Group Take Bold Steps to Combat Plastic Waste in Ghana

At Somochem, we understand that the future of our planet hinges on the actions we take today. As a leading chemical and polymer distribution company in Ghana, we are not just committed to providing quality products; we are also deeply invested in ensuring that our operations contribute positively to the environment. That’s why we, along with our parent company, the Mohinani Group, have pledged to tackle the pressing issue of plastic waste in Ghana and across the subregion.

 

Leading by Example: A Commitment to Sustainable Practices

 

On a bright Saturday morning, December 2nd, our senior leadership, staff, and volunteers from the Coastal Conservancy Organization gathered at the MPS Terminal 3 beach in Tema. This was not just another day at the office but a powerful demonstration of our commitment to sustainability. Armed with gloves and bags, we set out to clear the beach of plastic waste, a visible symbol of the plastic menace that threatens our environment.

 

Girender Mohinani, a senior manager in our Group, addressed the participants, emphasizing that this exercise was part of a broader initiative to raise awareness about the benefits of plastic waste recycling. “As an organization, we are committed to playing our part in solving the problems associated with plastics,” he said. And these are not just words; they are backed by significant action.

 

A $30 Million Investment in the Future

 

Earlier this year, the Mohinani Group made a groundbreaking investment of over $30 million in two state-of-the-art, closed-loop recycling plants in Ghana and Nigeria. These facilities are designed to produce food-grade rPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate) of European standards. The bottle-to-bottle recycling factory in Ghana, which has already commenced operations, is the first of its kind in the country and one of the most significant in the subregion. With the capacity to recycle approximately 15,000 metric tons of plastic per year in Ghana alone—and a combined capacity of 30,000 metric tons including the Nigeria plant—we are setting new benchmarks in the fight against plastic waste.

 

Education as a Catalyst for Change

 

While we are making strides with our recycling initiatives, we recognize that the battle against plastic waste cannot be won by corporate actions alone. Anil Mohinani, our Group’s head of new projects, has highlighted the crucial role of education in this fight. He believes that stakeholders in the plastic industry, including NGOs, must work together to educate the public on the importance of plastic waste segregation and sorting.

 

Imagine a world where every individual understands the value of categorizing their plastic waste by type and color, where recycling is not just a corporate responsibility but a communal one. This is the vision we are striving to achieve. By educating the public and fostering a culture of recycling, we can significantly enhance the efficiency of recycling processes and mitigate the environmental impact of plastics.

 

A Call to Action

 

At Somochem, we are not just talking about change; we are making it happen. Our commitment to sustainability is unwavering, and our efforts to combat plastic waste are just the beginning. We invite all our stakeholders, partners, and the communities we serve to join us in this vital mission. Together, we can turn the tide against plastic waste and pave the way for a cleaner, greener future.

 

Stay tuned for more updates on our sustainability initiatives and learn how you can be a part of this movement.