Africa-Press – Liberia. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken decisive action against the United Africa Minerals Cooperation, Edgail Recycling Facility, and the Conex MD SOW and Associates Slaughterhouse, Careysburg, for soil pollution and environmental degradation.
The United Africa Minerals Cooperation was fined US$30,000, the Edgail Recycling Facility was fined US$20,000, and the Conex MD SOW and Associates Slaughterhouse was ordered shut and instructed to prohibit further acceptance of cows.
Dr. Emmanuel Urey-Yarkpawolo, Executive Director of the EPA, announced the shutdown during a press briefing on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism press briefing.
According to him, the companies were shut down after the EPA’s investigation, which revealed alarming evidence of the companies’ harmful practices, including unauthorized mining that has led to extensive destruction of land and contamination of water sources in the region.
“These illegal activities not only threaten our environment but also jeopardize the livelihoods of local communities,” Dr. Urey-Yarkpawolo said. “The EPA will continue to enforce the law and protect Liberia’s natural resources. We must ensure that companies operating in our country adhere to environmental standards and respect the rights of our citizens.”
In addition to the immediate action against United Africa Minerals Cooperation, Dr. Urey-Yarkpawolo addressed several pressing environmental issues affecting the country, including a recent landslide in Kilema Town, Lofa County.
The landslide buried farmland and contaminated water sources due to heavy rainfall, highlighting the need for urgent government assistance for affected residents.
Dr. Urey-Yarkpawolo called for the implementation of soil conservation measures to prevent future occurrences of such disasters.
“We need to take proactive steps to protect our environment and communities,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of sustainable land management practices.
Another major concern raised by the EPA Executive Director was the degradation of the Mesurado Wetland along the SKD Boulevard.
He emphasized the significance of this vital ecosystem in maintaining regional biodiversity and supporting numerous species of flora and fauna.
Dr. Urey-Yarkpawolo called on all stakeholders — including government agencies, civil society, and the private sector — to collaborate on conservation measures to protect this critical environment.
“The Mesurado Wetland is not just a natural resource; it is an integral part of our ecological balance,” he said. “We must work together to safeguard it for future generations.”
Dr. Urey-Yarkpawolo also highlighted the need for public awareness and community engagement in environmental conservation.
He stressed that education and community involvement are essential for the success of the EPA’s initiatives.
“The agency is committed to raising awareness about environmental protection and promoting sustainable practices among the public,” he noted. “To this end, the EPA will launch a series of outreach programs aimed at educating citizens on environmental issues and encouraging their participation in conservation efforts.
“The EPA has recognized that engaging the public is crucial in fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. The upcoming outreach programs will focus on various aspects of environmental protection, including waste management, pollution reduction, and biodiversity conservation. By empowering citizens with knowledge and resources, the EPA aims to create a more sustainable future for Liberia”.
In his briefing, Dr. Urey-Yarkpawolo also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to discuss the EPA’s achievements over the past year, particularly its role in enhancing Liberia’s environmental framework through international cooperation.
He mentioned his recent participation in the 68th session of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference in Vienna, where Liberia signed key agreements aimed at improving national nuclear safety and emergency response.
Establishing a National Data Center in Liberia is another critical initiative the EPA plans to implement.
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