By Juliet Aguiar DUGBARTEY, Huni Valley
Abosso Goldfields Limited (AGL) has successfully diverted approximately 871 tonnes of plastic waste from landfill over the past five years, as part of its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability.
Through a structured segregation and collection process, the waste has been transferred to authorised recycling facilities – significantly reducing environmental pollution and contributing to a circular economy.
Speaking at the company’s World Environment Day celebration in Huni Valley, Acting Unit Manager for Environment at AGL, Desmond Asare, highlighted the initiative’s multifaceted benefits. “Beyond supporting our sustainability goals, revenue from sale of recyclable plastics is channelled into the Gold Fields Foundation to support vital community development projects,” he said.
Mr. Asare noted that the programme has also created local employment opportunities, exemplifying how environmental initiatives can deliver socio-economic benefits. He added that the achievement aligns with AGL’s broader environmental commitments, including targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and diverting waste from landfill.
The initiative also supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably:
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 14: Life Below Water
To enhance its waste management strategy, AGL has introduced source-separation systems across its operations. These systems allow employees to sort waste at the point of generation, improving recycling efficiency and minimising the risk of environmental contamination.
“Outside our operational boundaries, we actively engage communities through environmental education – promoting alternatives to single-use plastics such as reusable materials and bio-based packaging,” Mr. Asare said. “Community partnerships are crucial for long-term cultural change and fostering environmental stewardship.”
He also emphasised the need for a collective approach to tackling plastic pollution. “No single organisation can address this issue alone. It requires collaborative governance, supportive policies and strong stakeholder engagement,” he stated. “AGL remains committed to supporting regulatory reforms and participating in partnerships that promote sustainability and protect public health.”
Echoing this message, Frank Dankyi Agyei, AGL’s Relieving Operations Manager, noted that Gold Fields has launched awareness campaigns in nearby communities to highlight the dangers of plastic pollution and promote alternatives such as reusable shopping bags.
“Today’s programme reflects our ongoing commitment to engaging stakeholders on environmental protection. We believe community empowerment is the key to lasting impact,” he said.
He stressed that ending plastic pollution is a long-term effort requiring shared responsibility and both corporate and public accountability.
Sophia Ama Otabir, Acting Regional Director-Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), commended AGL’s commitment to environmental responsibility. “This year’s theme – ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’ – reminds us that tackling the crisis requires both innovation and responsibility,” she said. “We must rethink our relationship with plastic and embrace reusable alternatives wherever possible.”
She urged the public to adopt sustainable habits such as carrying reusable bags and containers, as small actions can lead to significant change.
As part of the event, AGL donated four refuse containers to schools within its operational area to support improved waste management practices.
