EPA Tightens Rules to Ensure Responsible Mining in Sierra Leone

The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) of Sierra Leone is ramping up efforts to ensure responsible mining through stricter enforcement of mine rehabilitation and closure standards, according to the latest episode of its public awareness series, EPA Unpacked.

In Episode 7, the EPA’s Directors of Natural Resources Governance and Legal Affairs, Mr. Paul Lamin and Mr. Tamba Sangbah Esq., highlighted the agency’s approach to mining closure planning.

They noted that both major and small-scale mining companies are now required to prepare and agree to site rehabilitation plans as a condition for their operations.

A key development discussed is the structured assessment of mine rehabilitation costs, which requires mining businesses to set aside closure bonds funds the government can access if companies fail to implement necessary repairs.

The EPA actively monitors and enforces this framework to ensure compliance, emphasizing that the approach not only protects the environment but also provides long-term benefits for local communities and the nation.