The Western Nzema Youth League (WNYL) has called on the Ghana National Gas Company to invest in air quality monitoring technologies to help assess and mitigate the impact of air pollution emanating from its operations in the Nzema enclave.
The Youth League lamented that the Nzema area had witnessed a rise in air pollution and trapped heat due to the venting of methane and isopentane gas by Ghana Gas.
Dr Patrick Ekye Kwesie, Leader of the WNYL, who made the call in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, said the situation could have detrimental effects on public health, agriculture, and the overall quality of life of the people within that area.
Dr Kwesie, also a Petroleum Management Expert, said: “In the Western Nzema area, Ghana Gas has been venting isopentane and methane as part of its operational processes which raises concerns about the potential health risks and environmental degradation associated with this practice.”
He argued that the company had a responsibility to safeguard the environment and health of the people within the communities in its operational zones.
“We have documented an increase in respiratory issues, skin irritations, and other health problems that we believe are linked to the rising levels of air pollution in the area and total disregard for carbon offset projects by Ghana Gas.
“Exposure to pollutants can lead to a range of health issues, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and even neurological disorders. Vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly are particularly at risk,” Dr Kwesie noted.
He, thus, called on Ghana Gas to install air quality monitoring devices, adding that the devices would provide real-time data on air pollution levels, enabling the communities to understand the extent of the problem, and take informed action.
He believed that having access to accurate air quality data was essential for raising awareness and holding Ghana Gas accountable for its environmental practices.
Dr Kwesie stated: “We have initiated awareness campaigns to educate residents about the health risks associated with air pollution and the importance of advocating for cleaner air and will do all we can to achieve this aim.”
GNA