Manchester, United Kingdom — In a decisive step to strengthen climate resilience and environmental protection, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia has begun a week-long technical exchange with Manchester Metropolitan University, turning a recent Memorandum of Understanding into on-the-ground scientific action.
Running from February 9–15, the collaboration brings senior EPA scientists to Manchester for intensive laboratory analysis and research planning.
The delegation is led by Rafael Sarji Ngumbu, Director of Environmental Research and Radiation Safety, and Joseph F. Charles, Assistant Director of Environmental Monitoring and Research.
At the heart of the mission is a landmark blue carbon study using sediment samples gathered from eight of Liberia’s nine coastal counties. The work aims to quantify the carbon storage potential of Liberia’s vast mangrove ecosystems, build a national mangrove inventory in partnership with Conservation International, and advance flood-mapping models to better protect communities facing sea-level rise and extreme weather.
The EPA team will also spotlight Liberia’s urgent research priorities: tackling marine pollution, improving plastic waste management, and assessing the environmental impacts of both artisanal and large-scale mining on the nation’s water resources.
A suite of advanced instruments, led by an Elemental Analyzer recently donated to the EPA by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), will underpin much of the laboratory work. By pairing this technology with Manchester Met’s academic expertise, the partnership is poised to elevate Liberia’s capacity to detect and manage Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and so-called “forever chemicals” (PFAS).
The initiative is expected to deliver immediate and long-term benefits. EPA scientists will receive hands-on training with advanced analytical techniques; new, high-quality datasets will inform evidence-based policy and could unlock access to climate finance and carbon markets; and strengthened in-country lab capacity will enhance Liberia’s ability to independently monitor industrial waste and hazardous chemicals.
Home to pristine rainforests and extensive coastal ecosystems, Liberia holds significant untapped research potential.
This collaboration marks the beginning of a sustained, data-driven partnership aimed at scientifically quantifying and safeguarding these globally important natural assets.
With IAEA-backed technology and international academic support, Liberia’s environmental research future is not just on the horizon, it is taking shape now.
