To mark World Environment Day 2025, UNDP Liberia Resident Representative Aliou Dia, called for strong regulatory frameworks, improved enforcement, and enhanced recycling infrastructure to combat the growing plastic pollution crisis.
The event, held on June 5, 2025, at the Paynesville Town Hall in Monrovia, was themed: “End Plastic Pollution” supported by the local slogan: “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.”
It convened stakeholders, youth leaders, and women’s groups from across society to reaffirm the country’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The government organized the event through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with support from UNDP.
In his keynote address, Dia said, tackling plastic pollution demands a whole-of-society response.
Strengthening Collaboration and Policy Reform
“The government must lead with bold policies and strict enforcement. The private sector must innovate and invest in recycling and circular economy solutions. Communities, particularly women and youth, must be empowered to lead local initiatives—from cleanup campaigns to public education,” he said.
Dia underscored the critical role of interagency cooperation among key government entities, including the EPA, National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, and Liberia Revenue Authority.
He added: “Together, these institutions can create an enabling policy environment and drive collective action. The country must also leverage international support.”
Through the Global Environment Facility’s (GEF) 9th replenishment, nations can access resources to combat plastic pollution, focusing on policy reform, circular economy initiatives, and improved waste management systems. Stakeholders at the event urged increased investment in waste management infrastructure, biodegradable alternatives, and sustainable practices.
Women and Youth: Catalysts for Change
Dia said the pivotal role of women and youth in community-driven environmental action.
He noted that their energy, creativity, and leadership are vital in transforming consumption habits and promoting sustainable alternatives.
With proper training, support, and recognition, they can become powerful agents of change in the fight against plastic waste.
He called on the government to reduce reliance on single-use plastics by investing in biodegradable alternatives, eco-innovations, and responsible production and consumption practices.
“The future we envision is one where the country thrives with a circular economy, resilient ecosystems, and empowered citizens,” he affirmed.
UNDP and EPA’s Commitment to a Cleaner Liberia
Dia reaffirmed UNDP’s dedication to a greener, healthier and more sustainable country through its Energy and Environment Programme.
“We support initiatives that enhance waste management, promote climate resilience, and conserve biodiversity. We are proud to partner with the government and civil society in tackling plastic pollution head-on,” he stated.
EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Yarkpawolo, echoed these concerns, outlining the country’s national efforts to address the crisis.
“We have launched a series of awareness and cleanup activities across counties, including school debates, art competitions, and environmental quizzes to engage the youth. This is more than a celebration—it is a national call to action,” he said.
Ongoing Initiatives and Outlook
The observance featured plastic collection drives in wetlands and mangroves, visits to recycling facilities, community clean-up campaigns, and media outreach to raise awareness on plastic waste hazards beginning in May and spanning to early June, 2025.
Dignitaries at the event called for the need for stronger interagency collaboration. Environmental NGOs, the Forestry Development Agency, civil society organizations, and other entities reaffirmed their commitment to supporting policy development, enforcement measures, and eco-innovation initiatives in partnership with the EPA.
Looking ahead, stakeholders continue to push for greater investment in waste management infrastructure, biodegradable alternatives, and circular economy practices.
Liberia is exploring additional funding opportunities through GEF-9 to support policy reform and capacity building.
A Call to Action
Earlier in the event, Miss Leona P. Duweh, EPA Awareness Officer, called on those who attended the ceremony to act against plastic pollution.
“I encourage all of us to actively contribute—if not immediately, then gradually—to ending plastic pollution. The first step is applying the Three Rs: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle,” she said.
Mr. Louis Kuukpen, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative for Operations, urged participants to embrace responsible waste management and become agents of change in the fight against plastic pollution.