Gov�t To Embark On Policy To Accelerate Use Of Raw Materials

Hon Sherry Ayittey, Minister of Environment, Science and Technology says the government is embarking on a policy to accelerate the use of local raw materials in the building and construction industry. According to her, government is mindful of the use of lesser used species of timber so as not only to deplete our forest but also avoid extinction of the more popular tree species like Wawa, Odum, etc to deliver affordable housing to Ghanaians, as more people will have access to better environmentally friendly housing facilities. Speaking at the International Workshop on Climate and Inauguration of a Baobab Centre for Ecological Studies at Valley View University, Hon Sherry Ayittey added that government is reviewing the Minerals and Mining Act, 703 of 2006. She said it is government�s belief that when the review is complete and strict, companies in the Extractive Industry particularly, mining companies will be adequately regulated, as �it will surely sanitize Ghana�s environment and restore hope to the people living in mining communities.� Hon Sherry Ayittey advised tertiary schools to emulate Valley View University for making their buildings eco-friendly and also organising workshops on climate friendly settlement. �We all live in settlements and houses, therefore we should contribute one way or the other to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and one practical way to do so is through housing in terms of design and operation,� she stated.