Natural Resources & Environment
Understand the legal frameworks governing environmental protection, mining and minerals, forests and other natural resources, including the public institutions responsible for regulation.
Common legal questions and situations
Plain-language guides
Use these guides to understand the legal framework before moving to the official law or seeking advice on a specific case.
Environmental Law and the Role of the EPA
A guide to Liberia's environmental legal framework, the role of the Environmental Protection Agency and the importance of environmental assessment…
Read guideMining, Minerals and Natural Resource Governance
An introduction to Liberia's mining and minerals framework, constitutional ownership of mineral resources and the relationship between mining, land…
Read guideQuestions people often ask
These answers explain general legal concepts. The facts of an individual matter may change the legal position.
What is the role of the Environmental Protection Agency?
The EPA is Liberia's principal public institution for coordinating and supervising environmental protection under its governing legislation, including environmental management, monitoring and regulatory functions.
Does owning land mean I own the minerals beneath it?
No. Article 22 of the Constitution distinguishes land ownership from mineral resources and provides that mineral resources belong to the Republic rather than to the private surface owner.
Can a mining or infrastructure project require environmental approval?
Potentially. Environmental laws and EPA regulations can require environmental assessment, permitting or other controls depending on the nature of the project. Current requirements should be verified with the responsible regulator.
Official legal sources
For current legal status and exact wording, use the enacted instrument or the responsible public institution.
Related Commission work
See how this area of law connects with current reform projects, consultations and published research.
Know when general information is not enough
Licensing, environmental approvals and resource concessions can involve specialised statutes and regulations. Verify the current requirements with the responsible regulator before acting.