EPA Mandates Environmental Permits for All Land and Water Reclamation Projects
New 2025 regulations require mandatory environmental permits for all land and water restoration projects in Ghana.
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced that all individuals and organizations undertaking reclamation and restoration activities must now secure an official environmental permit. This directive comes as part of the country’s updated environmental oversight framework.
According to an official statement released by the Authority, the mandate is legally grounded in Regulation 40 of the Environmental Protection (Environmental Assessment) Regulations, 2025 (L.I. 2504).
Scope of the New Regulation
The permitting requirement applies broadly to both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem restoration. Specifically, the EPA noted that permits are now compulsory for:
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Mining & Land Rehabilitation: Mine reclamation, the rehabilitation of abandoned mining sites, and the backfilling or reshaping of excavated lands.
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Ecological Restoration: Re-vegetation initiatives and the restoration of degraded landscapes.
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Water Body Recovery: Dredging operations and the ecological restoration of impacted water bodies.
Strict Enforcement and Compliance
The EPA emphasized that the directive applies universally to mining companies, contractors, landowners, developers, and investors. Operating without the required Environmental Permit will result in legal and regulatory sanctions as outlined under the 2025 legislation.
Through this framework, the Authority aims to tighten regulatory oversight, enforce strict environmental accountability, and champion sustainable restoration practices across Ghana’s industrial and development sectors.
Next Steps for Stakeholders
The public notice was signed and issued by Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, Executive Director of the EPA, who reiterated the organization’s dedication to balancing environmental preservation with responsible national development.
Notice to Stakeholders: Individuals or entities requiring guidance on the new application procedures are advised to visit their nearest EPA Regional Office or reach out via the Authority’s official communication channels.
