Objectives: | This report provides an analytical framework for discussing the major environmental and natural resource management issues in Sierra Leone. The primary environmental problems and findings are: water supply and sanitation, land degradation, forest degradation and deforestation, mining, fisheries, and manufacturing and tourism. Both water access and water contamination are serious issues, affecting a large percentage of the population. Land degradation is perceived as widespread, but the extent of damage is disputed and may be overestimated. Forest resource information is poor, and therefore, it is difficult to assess the extent of these problems. The value of maintaining mangroves for sustained yield of wood and as nursery grounds for marine life may be greater than the value of using the land for rice. Special attention needs to be given to the impact of artisanal mining and measures taken to reduce land degradation. The extent of overfishing, if any, is unclear. More precise biomass and maximum sustainable yield estimates are needed. Even though manufacturing and tourism are relatively underdeveloped, it is important to establish a review process, methods to monitor ongoing activities, and regulations that will ensure protection against future environmental damage. In conclusion, the root causes of environmental problems may be broadly defined as market and policy failures. Adequate institutional support, both private and public, is critical. |