By Amos Harris
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia has further solidified its partnership with the National Legislature following a high-level visit from Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence. Officials have described the engagement as a major boost to the country’s environmental governance and sustainable development agenda. Held at the EPA’s headquarters in Monrovia, the visit highlighted the agency’s expanding national footprint and its vital role in safeguarding Liberia’s natural resources, public health, and climate resilience.
During the engagement, the EPA’s Executive Director presented a comprehensive overview of the institution’s major milestones achieved in 2025. He underscored the agency’s successful transformation into a nationwide environmental watchdog, noting that the EPA has now expanded its operations to all 15 counties. This institutional achievement has significantly enhanced environmental monitoring, compliance, and enforcement throughout the country, allowing the government to better respond to violations and support local authorities in addressing ecological threats.
In another significant development, the EPA disclosed that it has mobilized approximately US$10 million in climate finance. These resources are currently being directed toward strengthening Liberia’s agriculture sector and improving climate resilience under the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development. Officials noted that this funding supports vulnerable communities while advancing adaptation strategies that protect livelihoods from the impact of climate change.
The agency also highlighted critical progress in coastal defense and erosion control, specifically in vulnerable areas such as West Point in Monrovia and Greenville in Sinoe County. These projects focus on protecting coastal settlements and reducing the devastating effects of sea erosion and flooding. Simultaneously, the EPA is developing county-based environmental action plans to ensure every region has a clear strategy for sustainable land use, pollution control, and conservation.
A major emphasis during the visit was the EPA’s intensified enforcement drive. The agency has strengthened the implementation of environmental laws, leading to tougher actions against polluters whose activities threaten public health. This framework is already improving sanitation and increasing public confidence in environmental governance. Furthermore, the EPA introduced new regulatory reforms, including net-metering guidelines to support clean energy and noise pollution regulations designed to improve urban health standards.
Looking toward 2026, the agency outlined an ambitious expansion agenda that includes constructing new offices in five additional counties, broadening access to climate finance, and deepening enforcement nationwide. Despite this progress, the EPA acknowledged persistent challenges such as illegal mining involving excavators, the importation of dangerous chemicals like cyanide, the destruction of wetlands, and budgetary constraints. To combat these issues, the agency appealed to the Liberian Senate for enhanced legislative backing, increased budgetary support, and approval of a US$400,000 request for wetland protection equipment.
As part of the visit, Senate Pro Tempore Karnga-Lawrence toured the EPA’s modern laboratory facilities. Technicians demonstrated how air, water, and soil samples are tested to detect pollutants and guide evidence-based enforcement. The laboratory remains a cornerstone of Liberia’s efforts to protect public health and support scientific research.
In her closing remarks, the Senate Pro Tempore commended the EPA for its remarkable institutional progress and national impact. She praised the agency’s commitment to environmental stewardship and assured the EPA of the Senate’s continued support. She also revealed plans to facilitate a future visit by other members of the Liberian Senate to deepen legislative understanding of the agency’s work. The engagement concluded with both institutions reaffirming their shared commitment to protecting Liberia’s environment and advancing sustainable national development.