Micro Minority Caucus Opposes Emissions Tax Repeal: Prioritizing Environmental Protection Over Taxation

The debate over the repeal of the emissions tax has reignited questions about Ghana’s approach to sustainable development. While the Micro Minority Caucus continues to resist the repeal, this article advocates for a broader vision—one that emphasizes environmental conservation and community engagement over the imposition of taxes. Citizens, particularly schools and communities, must be encouraged to actively participate in tree planting, a proven method of mitigating the effects of deforestation and absorbing carbon emissions.

Environmental Conservation as the Solution

Ghana faces significant environmental challenges, including the loss of over 70% of its original forests and widespread degradation of natural resources. Tree planting, however, offers a simple yet impactful solution to this problem. By cultivating green spaces in schools and communities, citizens can take ownership of their environment, fostering a sense of responsibility and collective action.

The Micro Minority Caucus has also stressed the importance of preserving Ghana’s natural heritage—its forest reserves, river bodies, and farmlands—and combating illegal mining, popularly known as *galamsey*. These efforts are crucial not just for ecological stability but for the livelihoods and health of Ghanaians, particularly rural communities dependent on natural resources.

This approach resonates with the wisdom of a Dagomba proverb: “When the last tree dies, the last man dies.” The proverb underscores the intrinsic link between human survival and environmental preservation, reminding us of the dire consequences of neglecting nature. Schools, as centers of learning and leadership, can serve as hubs for environmental awareness, inspiring young people to embrace sustainability as a way of life.

A Global Perspective
While the repeal of the emissions tax may alleviate financial burdens in the short term, it is imperative to consider alternative strategies that align with global sustainability goals. Ghana has the potential to earn carbon credits through reforestation projects, providing an economic incentive for environmental conservation. These credits can fund green initiatives and create job opportunities, particularly for the youth, in eco-friendly industries.

Internationally, countries like Costa Rica have shown how reforestation and eco-tourism can transform a struggling economy into a global environmental leader. Ghana has similar potential, but it requires bold decisions to shift from exploitative resource extraction to sustainable development practices. As Kofi Annan wisely observed, “You are never too young to lead and never too old to learn.” Ghana's future leaders—its students and young professionals—must be equipped to drive innovative solutions to environmental challenges, positioning the nation as a global advocate for sustainability.

Overview of E-Taxes and Levies Introduced by the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia Administration

The Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration introduced several taxes and levies during its tenure, aimed at addressing fiscal challenges and generating revenue. Notable among these were:

• Electronic Transaction Levy (E-Levy): A 1.5% tax on electronic transactions exceeding GHS 100, implemented in 2022, aimed at broadening the tax base.
• COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy: A 1% levy on goods and services, introduced in 2021 to support pandemic recovery efforts.
• Financial Sector Recovery Levy: A 5% levy on the profit before tax of banks, introduced to address the financial sector cleanup.
• Energy Sector Recovery Levy: Imposed on fuel prices to address energy sector debts.
• Sanitation and Pollution Levy: Aimed at funding waste management and environmental initiatives.

While these taxes were introduced to stabilize the economy, they faced criticism for increasing the cost of living and burdening citizens. The Micro Minority Caucus argues that such measures, though well-intentioned, often fail to address the root causes of fiscal challenges and environmental degradation.

Call to Action
The Micro Minority Caucus’s opposition to the emissions tax repeal extends beyond criticism—it is a call to reimagine Ghana’s economic strategies. By investing in the environment and empowering citizens to take action, the country can achieve economic growth without sacrificing its ecological heritage. Schools and communities hold the power to transform this vision into reality, paving the way for a greener and more prosperous future.

The article’s advocacy reflects Chinua Achebe’s timeless words: “We cannot trample upon the humanity of others without devaluing our own.” It reminds policymakers that protecting the environment is not an abstract ideal but an intrinsic part of Ghana’s sustainable future. By embracing tree planting, safeguarding natural resources, and combating galamsey, Ghana can lead the way in Africa’s environmental transformation.

Retired Senior Citizen
Teshie-Nungua
[email protected]