EPA and ACPC Hold Workshop on Climate Action and NDC 3.0 in Buchanan

Buchanan, Grand Bassa– December 3, 2024 – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia, in partnership with the Africa Climate Policy Center (ACPC), held a two-day workshop from December 2-3, 2024, at the K-PLAZA Hotel in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County. The workshop aimed to develop and finalize Liberia’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) 3.0, which will guide the country’s climate action plans in line with national development goals.

The ACPC, a part of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, has been working with the EPA to support Liberia in strengthening its climate commitments, especially ahead of COP21. This workshop focused on engaging stakeholders from various sectors to identify key issues in the current NDCs and establish new targets for NDC 3.0.

The workshop concentrated on two main areas:

1. Agriculture and Forestry: Participants discussed land use changes, deforestation, agricultural practices, and carbon storage in forests and soils. These discussions aim to set new targets in the Agriculture, Forestry, and Other Land Use (AFOLU) sector.
2. Water Resources: The group assessed the state of freshwater ecosystems, including lakes, rivers, and wetlands. They reviewed data on water quality, biodiversity, and climate-related pressures like pollution and over-extraction to set goals for water management.

UN Resident Coordinator Madam Christine N. Umutoni highlighted the importance of the workshop, emphasizing the severe impacts of climate change on Liberia’s vulnerable sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and coastal areas. She called for active participation and collaboration among stakeholders to craft a climate strategy that balances mitigation and resilience.

Madam Umutoni also noted that 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, a pivotal moment for nations to submit revised NDCs. She praised Liberia’s efforts to combat climate change and its commitment to developing inclusive and ambitious climate policies.

The workshop brought together key stakeholders, including:

Representatives from the EPA, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Mines and Energy, Ministry of Transport, and Ministry of Public Works.

Members of civil society organizations, private sector representatives, and academic institutions like the University of Liberia.

Development partners such as the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

Madam Umutoni commended the EPA and ACPC for their leadership in organizing the event and reaffirmed the UN’s support for Liberia’s climate action initiatives. She encouraged all participants to continue their collaboration in building a climate-resilient Liberia.

This workshop is part of Liberia’s ongoing commitment to meet its climate obligations under the Paris Agreement and to ensure a sustainable future for its people.