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Environment & Sustainability Guide

Air quality, green spaces, and environmental policies in Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone faces significant environmental challenges including frequent flooding, coastal erosion, and deforestation, despite low greenhouse gas emissions of 1.8 tonnes per capita. The country has committed to reducing emissions by 10% by 2030 under its updated NDC, with declining emissions trends over the past decade. Limited data on air quality and sustainability metrics highlights the need for improved monitoring, while climate change exacerbates natural disaster risks.

Air Quality Index

Moderate

6.0/10

Stable trend

Air quality data is limited with current AQI and PM levels unavailable. Stable 6-month trend per database. Low industrial activity contributes to relatively low emissions, but biomass burning and urban pollution pose risks. EPA-SL is establishing monitoring through CEDAS in 2025.

Water Quality

Moderate

5.5/10

Water quality faces challenges from pollution and inadequate treatment. Access to clean water is limited, with climate impacts on water resources noted in NDC. Government monitoring exists but data gaps persist; adaptation targets focus on water sector resilience.

Drinking water safety concerns due to contamination; treatment standards developing through EPA initiatives.

Recycling System

Recycling infrastructure is underdeveloped with no available rate or types in database. Waste sector targeted for 52.5% GHG reduction by 2035 through landfill improvements and organic diversion in NDC 3.0.

Green Spaces

Significant forest cover supports biodiversity but faces deforestation pressures. NDC targets 200,000 ha forest management, 100,000 ha mangroves by 2035 to avoid 18,204 GgCO2e emissions. Protected areas include national parks and reserves.

Forest Coverage: 37.5%

National Parks: 5

Key areas include Gola Rainforest National Park and Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary.

Environmental Policies

Sierra Leone ratified Paris Agreement; updated NDC commits to 10% GHG reduction by 2030 from 2005 levels unconditionally. EPA operationalizes environmental data center in 2025. Focus on energy transition and waste management.

Key Policies:

•Updated NDC 2021
•Climate Finance Strategy 2025
•EPA Environmental Protection Act

Renewable Energy: Energy sector 41.6% reduction below BAU by 2035; 50 MW rural mini-grids.

Natural Disaster Risk

HIGH

High risk from floods, landslides, and coastal erosion. Common disasters include seasonal flooding affecting urban areas like Freetown.

floodslandslidescoastal erosion

Climate Change Impacts: Temperature rise of ~1.1°C since pre-industrial; increased extreme rainfall leading to more frequent floods (e.g., 2017 mudslides killed 1,000+). Precipitation patterns show heavier events; sea level rise threatens 30% coastal population. Over last 20 years, flood frequency up 20-30%; NDC identifies coastal zones, disaster risk management as priorities.

Sustainability Initiatives

Renewable Energy

Bumbuna Hydroelectric Dam operational since 2009; NDC targets 50 MW rural mini-grids and energy sector 41.6% GHG reduction by 2035 to enhance energy security and reduce fossil fuel imports.

Waste Management

NDC waste sector targets 52.5% GHG reduction by 2035 via landfill gas recovery (135 GgCO2e/year) and organic waste diversion; new landfill facilities with leachate collection.

Forestry

Forest management of 200,000 ha, 100,000 ha mangroves by 2035 to avoid 18,204 GgCO2e emissions; aligns with declining land-use emissions trend.

Wildlife & Nature

Pygmy HippoEndangered

Western ChimpanzeeCritically Endangered

Green TuracoVulnerable

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