MONROVIA, July 2, 2026 – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has urged the House of Representatives to strengthen Liberia’s environmental and mining laws, warning that illegal mechanized mining has become a serious threat to national security, the environment, public health, and the economy.
The appeal was made Wednesday during a public hearing convened by the House Joint Committees on Mines and Natural Resources, Environment, Hydrocarbon, and Judiciary as part of the Legislature’s review of Senate Engrossed Bill No. 5 and broader reforms to the country’s mining and environmental legal framework.
The hearing brought together officials from the Ministry of Mines and Energy, the EPA, the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, the Law Reform Commission, the Liberia Chamber of Mines, and other stakeholders.
Presenting the EPA’s position, Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Yarkpawolo Urey told lawmakers that Liberia’s challenge is not a shortage of mineral resources but ensuring they are exploited legally, responsibly, and in ways that benefit citizens while protecting the environment.
According to the EPA, nationwide environmental monitoring has revealed an increase in illegal mechanized mining involving excavators and dredges, resulting in extensive damage to forests, rivers, wetlands, and farmlands, particularly in Gbarpolu County and other mineral-rich areas.
The agency warned that continued environmental degradation threatens public health, food security, community livelihoods, and government revenue.
Dr. Urey also raised concerns about the growing use of hazardous chemicals, including mercury and cyanide, in illegal gold mining, saying their uncontrolled use poses significant risks to miners, surrounding communities, and the country’s water resources.
He further informed lawmakers that Liberia currently lacks a comprehensive national inventory of excavators and dredges, making it difficult for authorities to monitor equipment ownership, ensure compliance with permits, and prevent operations in protected and environmentally sensitive areas.
While reaffirming the EPA’s support for responsible investment and lawful mining, Urey said sustainable development requires stronger environmental governance, effective enforcement of existing laws, and greater coordination among government institutions.
The hearing also allowed participating institutions to present findings from recent nationwide inspections and recommend amendments to the Mining Law of 2000 to address emerging challenges in the extractive sector.
Lawmakers reviewed proposals aimed at strengthening environmental safeguards, improving regulatory oversight, and ensuring that Liberia’s mineral resources contribute more effectively to national development.
The House Joint Committees said the ongoing review reflects the Legislature’s commitment to promoting transparency, responsible mining practices, and the sustainable management of Liberia’s natural resources while balancing economic growth with environmental protection.
