The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia has ordered the immediate shutdown of the Conex MD SOW and Associates Slaughterhouse in Careysburg following significant environmental violations.
The closure, effective as of October 11, 2024, was enforced after a detailed investigation conducted by the EPA on September 24, 2024, revealed serious breaches of the country’s environmental laws.Conex MD SOW was operating the slaughterhouse without the required environmental permits, a violation of Liberia’s environmental compliance standards.
The slaughterhouse was found to be discharging untreated wastewater and other harmful effluents into the environment, leading to pollution in nearby areas. Residents complained of livestock from the facility straying into surrounding areas, causing damage to crops and creating conflicts between the animals and local farmers.
The improper disposal of waste and poor facility management resulted in foul odors and deteriorated air quality, posing a potential health threat to those living near the facility.
As part of the enforcement, the EPA imposed a US$5,000 fine on Conex MD SOW, which must be paid to the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA).
The company has also been mandated to work with the EPA to remediate the environmental damage caused by its operations and to ensure full compliance with environmental standards before resuming any activities.
Danise Love Dennis-Dodoo, Head of Media & Corporate Communications at the EPA, emphasized the agency’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws and protecting public health.
“The EPA is dedicated to ensuring that businesses follow the necessary regulations to prevent harm to the environment and surrounding communities. We will not hesitate to take swift action against any entity that violates these laws,” she said.
The EPA’s decision has been welcomed by Careysburg residents, many of whom had voiced concerns over the pollution and its impact on their health and livelihoods.
The closure serves as a reminder that businesses must adhere to Liberia’s environmental laws to ensure sustainable operations that do not compromise the well-being of citizens.
