SCNL Exec. Dir. Michael F. Garbo
The head of an environmental organization has challenged government and institutions to formulate strong environmental laws, sustainable development policies, create protected areas and venture into renewable energy investment as a means of preserving biodiversity.
Mr. Michael F. Garbo, Executive Director of the Society for the Conservation of Nature of Liberia (SCNL), believes real transformation takes place when government, businesses, schools, religious institutions, and citizens work together with a share vision that collaboration is the key to lasting environmental progress.
Serving as keynote speaker over the weekend in Monrovia at programs making the celebration of International Day of Biological Diversity, Mr. Garbo revealed that across the world, leaders are raising awareness about climate change, wildlife protection, renewable energy, and sustainable living, noting that change begins with individuals who choose to care.
At a well-attended indoor program graced by local and international partners working in the environmental sector as well as university students reading environmental science, Mr. Garbo who emphasized that policies alone are not enough without community participation, reminded environmental stakeholders that nature is incredibly resilient when given the chance to recover.
“Biodiversity across the globe is under serious threat as forests are disappearing, species are becoming extinct at alarming rate, pollution continues to poison land and water, and climate change is altering ecosystems faster than any species can adapt” Mr. Garbo noted.
Mr. Garbo: “Around the world, there are inspiring examples of restoration that include: forest being replanted, endangered species recovering, river becoming clean again, communities embracing sustainable agriculture, and cities creating green spaces for people and wildlife. These success stories prove that positive change is possible.”
After sending a caveat that decisions made today will shape the world our children and grandchildren inherit tomorrow, the CSNL boss called on environmental stakeholders and the public to begin implementing these measures: plant more trees, protect natural habitats, reduce pollution, conserve water, support sustainable farming, avoid wasteful consumption, and educate others about environmental responsibility.
He told the audience that biodiversity is deeply connected to our cultures, economies, and daily lives but observed that unfortunately modernization sometimes leads people to forget sustainable environmental practices, adding that it was about time people rethink how they make daily choices that effect the environment, the kind of planet they are leaving behind for the next generation, and contributions being made to protect nature.
This year’s celebration of International Biological Diversity Day which was held under the theme: “Acting Locally for Global Impact” features public awareness on local radio stations, and climaxed with an indoor program Friday May 22, 2026 at the University of Liberia auditorium that drew the participation of stakeholders including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Forestry Developmental Authority (FDA), Liberia National Tourism Authority (LNTA), Ministry of Justice, Ex-Bush Meat Sellers for Conservation among others.