In Takoradi, Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), has strongly advocated for the adoption of the cylinder recirculation model (CRM) policy. He emphasized that this policy would not only enhance safety but also aim to increase access to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to 50 percent by 2030. This model is expected to introduce more robust and standardized health, safety, and environmental practices in the handling of LPG.
According to Ghana News Agency, the CRM policy is a response to public concerns about the safety of gas filling near residential areas. He shared these insights during the Consumer Week Celebration in Takoradi, Western Region, themed 'LPG: Clean Cooking, Healthy Lifestyle'. This event, part of the Global Consumer Service Week, is observed annually by the NPA to educate the public on their rights, responsibilities, and safe usage of petroleum products.
The NPA Boss highlighted the environmental and health benefits of LPG, pointing out its lower carbon dioxide emissions compared to coal, heating oil, and petrol. He stressed LPG's role as a dependable transition fuel, particularly for household use, citing its health, environmental, and economic advantages. However, he noted that despite these benefits, the uptake of LPG in Ghana is currently around 37 percent, indicating a need for more active promotion.
Dr. Abdul-Hamid expressed concern about the continued preference for traditional charcoal or wood fuel methods of cooking by a significant portion of the population. He emphasized the need for action to provide alternative livelihoods for families dependent on the charcoal business to protect Ghana's forest cover.
Safety, according to the NPA Chief, has been a priority for President Nana Akufo-Addo's government, leading to the introduction and implementation of the CRM. He acknowledged that most LPG-related accidents in homes are due to non-adherence to safety precautions, and the NPA is intensifying public education on LPG's safe use and handling.
In addition to Dr. Abdul-Hamid's remarks, Deputy Minister of Energy, Mr. Andrew Egypa Mercer, spoke about the significance of the campaign, especially in the context of the ongoing global debate on climate change. He affirmed the Ministry of Energy's commitment to supporting initiatives that protect the environment.
Dr. Okyere Darko Mensah, Western Regional Minister, also addressed the gathering, urging the public to maintain safety standards in handling LPG and all petroleum-related products, avoiding complacency and familiarity with risks.