Abstract
The government of Ghana has introduced climate change mitigation initiatives with specific goals aimed at reducing emissions and improving residents’ health. For instance, it plans to distribute two million solar lanterns to households and increase Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) adoption to 50% among peri-urban and rural households by 2030. Through the Alliance for Clean Cookstoves, 50,000 free cylinders and cookstoves will also be distributed nationwide. This study examines residents’ awareness and perceptions of these policies. We conducted a semi-structured online survey in the Greater Accra region from October 2023 to February 2024, gathering 146 valid responses. Using ordered probit regression, we analyzed correlations between socio-demographic factors and respondents’ perceptions. Results show that 66% were aware of the ban on second-hand refrigerators, 52% knew about the ban on used air conditioners, and 62% were informed about the refrigerator rebate program. However, 69% were unaware of tax exemptions on solar products and the solar lantern program. Monthly income was the only variable with a statistically significant effect on perception (p-value = 0.010), suggesting higher income correlates with more positive views on emission policies. Given the moderate awareness of these initiatives, this paper discusses measures the Ghanaian government could take to enhance public engagement and effectiveness.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2025 Special Focus—Sustainable Development for a Dynamic Planet: Lessons, Priorities, and Solutions
KEYWORDS
Residents' Perceptions, Awareness, Emission Policies, Ghana
