Assessing Green Economy Policy Implementation in Public Sector Institutions in the Bono Region of Ghana

Abstract

Amid growing environmental challenges and the global call to transition from a brown to a green economy (GE), Ghana must strengthen the implementation of green policies, particularly within its public sector institutions. To align with global sustainability goals, Ghana has integrated green economy principles into its national policies, such as the National Climate Change Policy Framework and the Renewable Energy Master Plan (2019-2030). The National Green Jobs Strategy (2021-2025) also aims to create sustainable job opportunities. However, there remains a significant gap between the aspirations of these policies and their practical implementation, particularly at the regional level. This study, therefore, assesses the implementation of green economy policies in the Bono Region, focusing on three critical public sectors: agriculture, forestry, and waste management. The research adopts an interpretive paradigm, a qualitative approach, and a case study design to explore institutional experiences. Thirteen key informants from public sector institutions were selected using purposive and snowball sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and were analyzed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s (2022) framework. The findings revealed that the studied public institutions have adopted several green policies and initiatives, including climate-smart agriculture, afforestation and reforestation programs, and waste recycling programs. Institutional collaboration emerged as a crucial pillar for the successful implementation of green economy policies by enhancing planning, resource mobilization, and policy coordination. However, challenges like limited funding, inadequate logistics, weak technical capacity, lack of advanced technologies, and climate-related threats, along with issues such as illegal logging and mining and poor waste disposal, hinder effective policy implementation. The findings suggest that while significant strides have been made in implementing green economy policies in the Bono Region, overcoming the identified barriers and strengthening institutional collaboration will be critical in scaling up efforts and ensuring long-term sustainability. Greater investment in capacity building, technology, and inclusive governance will be essential for accelerating Ghana’s green transition.