The Environmental Protection Agency of Sierra Leone (EPA-SL) has sought the assistance of New Leaf Africa (NLA) to develop sustainability programs to reduce carbon emissions, the agency announced Sept. 8.
Executive Chairperson of the EPA-SL Haddijatou Jallow wrote in a letter to the NLA that Sierra Leone is vulnerable to the effects of climate change. According to Jallow, only Bangledesh and Guinea Bissau are considered to be impacted more by climate change.
“We are increasingly experiencing the adverse effects of climate change in almost all sectors including agriculture, fisheries, tourism, forestry and infrastructure,” Jallow said. “Sierra Leone's contribution to global emissions of greenhouse gases is negligible, yet these impacts will continue to affect these vulnerable communities in the future.”
In this partnership, NLA will serve as an advising body over the preparations for new programs of the EPA-SL. These include National Climate Change Policy, the National Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan, and the National Climate Change Mainstreaming Guidelines for Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
NLA provides experts in areas relating to technology, sustainability and renewable energy whose work is catered to developing sustainable solutions to African countries and regions.
"NLA focuses on projects that advance access to improved health, education and agricultural projects in local communities,” Michael Keister, co-founder and board member at NLA, said. “Our boots-on-the-ground, community health officials have gathered local community support and formal consent from the tribal leaders and we are pleased to announce that community member participation has been favorable and supportive.”
Alerts Sign-up