Plastic Waste in Sierra Leone: Exploring Sustainable Solutions

By Kadiatu A Turay

’

Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues globally, and Sierra Leone is no exception. From Freetown’s bustling streets to the serene beaches of Lungi, plastic waste is visible everywhere, posing a severe threat to human health, marine life, and the environment. While the problem is daunting, exploring sustainable solutions is crucial to mitigating its impact.

The Plastic Problem in Sierra Leone

Plastic waste in Sierra Leone primarily comes from single-use items such as water sachets, plastic bags, and food packaging. With the country’s limited waste management infrastructure, most of this plastic ends up in open dump sites, waterways, or is burned, releasing toxic fumes.

According to a 2023 report by the Ministry of the Environment, Sierra Leone generates an estimated 15,000 metric tons of plastic waste annually, with less than 10% properly managed or recycled. The report highlighted that “plastic waste in urban areas clogs drainage systems, contributing to flooding during the rainy season and creating breeding grounds for mosquitoes.”

Health and Environmental Impacts

The health risks associated with plastic pollution are alarming. Improper disposal of plastic leads to the proliferation of micro plastics, which have been found in drinking water and marine organisms. These micro plastics, when ingested, can cause long term health issues in humans, including hormonal disruptions and cancer

Marine life also suffers greatly. Freetown’s Aberdeen beach, once a thriving ecosystem, has seen a decline in fish populations due to plastic ingestion and entanglement. “Plastic pollution is killing our marine resources,” laments Musa Kamara, a fisherman from Goderich. “We often find plastic in the stomachs of the fish we catch.”

Stakeholders’ Perspectives on Solutions.

Addressing the plastic waste crisis requires collaboration among various stakeholders, each playing a unique role in driving sustainable solutions.

Government Officials

Dr. Abubakar Sesay, Director of Environmental Policy at the Ministry of Environment, emphasizes the need for stringent legislation. “We are drafting policies that will ban single-use plastics and introduce penalties for improper waste disposal,” he says. “However, enforcement will require commitment at all levels.”

The government has also launched the “Green Sierra Leone” initiative, focusing on integrating waste management education into school curriculums. Chief Minister, Dr David Sengeh, notes, “Teaching our children the value of a clean environment ensures that future generations will adopt eco-friendly practices.”

Private Sector and Businesses

The private sector has a critical role in transitioning to a circular economy. “We’ve begun exploring partnerships with recycling firms to turn waste into reusable materials,” shares Fatmata Bangura, CEO of EcoPack SL, a startup producing biodegradable packaging. “Our aim is to reduce plastic dependency while providing affordable alternatives.”

Similarly, Sierra Bottling Company has pledged to collect and recycle 60% of the plastic they produce by 2027. “We recognize our responsibility in addressing plastic pollution,” says the company’s sustainability manager, Joseph Koroma.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

NGOs are pivotal in bridging the gap between communities and policymakers. Mariatu Kamara, Executive Director of Green Earth Sierra Leone, highlights the importance of grassroots campaigns. “We work closely with local communities, organizing clean up drives and training programs on upcinching,” she explains. “Empowering people to see plastic as a resource rather than waste is key to sustainable change.”

One notable initiative is the “Plastic for Cash” program, where community members collect plastic waste in exchange for monetary rewards. “This program not only tackles pollution but also provides an income source for vulnerable groups,” Kamara adds.

Community Leaders and Activists

Local leaders and activists are instrumental in fostering environmental stewardship. “In our community, we’ve established bylaws against littering and improper disposal of plastic,” says Chief Alhaji Conteh of Port Loko District. “These rules are enforced by our youth groups who also educate residents on waste segregation.”

Youth activist Aminata Kargbo, who runs the “Green Youth Initiative,” believes young people are the driving force behind environmental change. “We’re mobilizing schools and universities to take part in plastic clean up challenges and advocacy campaigns,” she shares. “The energy and creativity of youth can inspire nationwide action.”

Innovative Solutions from Academia

Research institutions in Sierra Leone are exploring innovative solutions to the plastic waste crisis. At Njala University, a team of researchers is developing low-cost plastic shredders to facilitate recycling in rural areas. “Our goal is to make recycling accessible and economically viable for everyone,” says Dr. Lamin Turay, a senior lecturer in environmental science.

Furthermore, the university is piloting a project that converts plastic waste into construction materials such as bricks and tiles. “These eco-bricks are not only durable but also offer a sustainable alternative to traditional building materials,” Dr. Turay adds.

International Support and Partnerships

Global organizations have also stepped in to support Sierra Leone’s fight against plastic waste. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) recently launched a $2 million project to improve waste management infrastructure in Freetown and its environs. “We’re committed to working with local authorities to build recycling hubs and train waste collectors,” says UNDP country representative, Sudipto Mukerjee.

The World Bank has pledged additional funding to support community-based waste management programs, emphasizing the need for inclusive participation.

Success Stories and Lessons Learned

Several success stories worldwide offer inspiration. In Kenya, the ban on plastic bags reduced plastic waste by 80% within a year. Similarly, Indonesia’s Bali Island introduced a plastic ban in 2019, leading to cleaner beaches and increased tourist satisfaction. These examples highlight that with commitment and the right strategies, Sierra Leone can overcome its plastic waste challenge.

The fight against plastic waste in Sierra Leone is a long but necessary journey. By prioritizing sustainable solutions such as public education, stronger waste management systems, biodegradable alternatives, and stringent policies, the country can safeguard its environment and health.

The Road Ahead

While challenges remain, Sierra Leone has the potential to become a model for plastic waste management in West Africa. Success will depend on strong leadership, community engagement, and the continuous drive for innovative solutions.

As an environmental scientist Dr. Bangura aptly puts it, “Every stakeholder has a role to play, from the government down to the individual. Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier Sierra Leone for generations to come.”

With united efforts and a clear vision, Sierra Leone can turn the tide on plastic pollution and pave the way for a more sustainable future. The time for action is now.