The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has cautioned motorists against using fuel produced from discarded plastic waste by a young innovator at Asesewa in the Upper Manya Krobo District of the Eastern Region, following preliminary tests that found the product unsuitable for the Ghanaian market.
The NPA, however, says further laboratory tests in Accra will be conducted to establish the chemical composition and determine the actual quality of the product.
The findings emerged during a visit by officials of the Authority, led by the Eastern Regional Director, Mr Salifu S. Nagumsi, and his technical team, following a viral social media video showcasing the young man’s attempt to convert plastic waste into fuel.
Speaking after the preliminary tests, Mr Nagumsi said the results indicated that the product was not approved for use in vehicles, motorbikes or other machinery in Ghana.
“The preliminary tests we have conducted on the product indicate that the product is not marked and it is not suitable for the Ghanaian market,” he stated.
He consequently advised motorists and motorbike riders against using the product until its safety and quality had been scientifically established.
“I encourage motorists around here, people who use their private motorbikes, people who use bicycles and cars, not to put this in their vehicles because we don’t know the hydrocarbons that emanate from the product,” he cautioned.
Mr Nagumsi explained that samples had been taken to the NPA’s main laboratory in Accra for comprehensive quality assessments to identify the chemical compounds contained in the fuel and determine its suitability for any potential application.
He stressed that the preliminary findings were not the final outcome of the Authority’s assessment.
“What we’ve done here is just to indicate that this product is not meant for the Ghanaian market, but the quality test and any other further test will be conducted in the lab in Accra,” he explained.
The NPA Regional Director disclosed that the innovator, a welder and fabricator by profession, developed the equipment out of personal interest and experimentation rather than for commercial purposes.
According to him, the young man has produced a maximum of about two litres of the fuel in a day, dismissing fears that the experimental production could pose an immediate threat to the country’s petroleum market.
However, Mr Nagumsi raised concerns about safety at the production site, citing the absence of certified equipment, protective gear, fire extinguishers and warning signs.
He advised the young man to suspend production while the Authority engages him on the necessary safety requirements.
Despite the preliminary test results, the NPA says it is open to exploring ways of guiding and supporting the innovator because of the environmental potential of converting plastic waste into useful energy products.
Mr Nagumsi said the Authority would submit its findings to management and determine the next steps after receiving further technical guidance.
The final laboratory results are expected to provide a clearer picture of the product’s chemical composition, quality and potential for further development.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com
