By Jamesetta D Williams
MONROVIA-The Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, has announced that the agency is installing a €100,000 Elemental Analyzer that will significantly enhance Liberia’s environmental monitoring and scientific testing capabilities.
Speaking Tuesday at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing, Dr. Yarkpawolo said the sophisticated laboratory equipment was donated by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), with a team of experts currently in Liberia overseeing its installation and training EPA technicians on its operation.
According to him, two EPA staff members were previously sent to Manchester Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom to receive specialized training on the operation of the equipment ahead of its arrival.
The EPA Executive Director described the Elemental Analyzer as one of the most advanced pieces of environmental laboratory equipment available in the region, noting that Liberia was selected to host the machine because of its growing technical capacity.
He disclosed that the EPA is working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to officially dedicate the laboratory as part of activities marking Liberia’s Independence Day celebrations.
Responding to questions from journalists, Dr. Yarkpawolo explained that the machine has multiple environmental and scientific applications.
He said the equipment will enable the EPA to analyze fertilizers to determine whether their chemical composition matches manufacturers’ specifications, helping protect farmers from substandard agricultural products.
The machine, he added, will also be used to test environmental samples, detect harmful substances, verify the composition of various materials, and measure the amount of carbon stored in Liberia’s mangrove forests and soils to support climate change research and potential carbon credit initiatives.
According to him, the equipment will strengthen the EPA’s ability to provide independent scientific verification and second opinions on environmental matters affecting both government institutions and private entities.
In another major announcement, Dr. Yarkpawolo revealed that the EPA has purchased the building it currently occupies for US$800,000 after years of operating from rented facilities.
He said the acquisition was made possible through years of financial discipline and institutional savings, describing the purchase as a major milestone for the agency.
According to him, independent property assessments placed the value of the building at approximately US$1.3 million, while the entire property was valued at around US$7 million.
Dr. Yarkpawolo praised the owners of the property for agreeing to negotiate a reduced purchase price, saying the family demonstrated professionalism throughout the transaction.
He emphasized that government institutions should prioritize owning their office facilities instead of relying on rented buildings whenever possible.
The EPA Executive Director also responded to concerns raised by the Sustainable Development Institute (SDI) regarding allegations of environmental violations involving Golden Veroleum Liberia (GVL).
He rejected suggestions that the EPA had ignored the complaint, explaining that the agency received the communication while preparing for a nationwide environmental monitoring exercise.
According to him, the EPA has already constituted an investigation team to examine the allegations and remains committed to investigating every legitimate environmental complaint brought to its attention.
Dr. Yarkpawolo clarified that any delay in responding should not be interpreted as a refusal to investigate, noting that the agency is simultaneously handling numerous environmental cases across the country.
He further disclosed that the EPA continues to collaborate closely with the Liberia National Police in enforcing Liberia’s noise pollution regulations.
He commended the police for stepping up enforcement efforts, revealing that officers have already confiscated equipment from individuals and businesses found violating the regulations.
According to him, the EPA is providing technical guidance to law enforcement authorities on the proper handling of seized equipment and the implementation of the country’s environmental regulations.
Dr. Yarkpawolo concluded by calling on Liberians to help reduce excessive noise pollution, stressing that protecting the environment also requires responsible public behavior and respect for environmental laws.
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