In a significant step towards enhancing its climate action efforts, Sierra Leone has officially launched the Association of Carbon Conservation and Reforestation (ACCR). This pioneering initiative was celebrated at the British High Commission in Freetown on June 19, 2025, with eminent guests including government officials, ambassadors, donors, development partners and private sector leaders. The event was hosted by British High Commissioner Madam Josephine Gauld LVO, who emphasised the significance of this initiative amidst global climate finance trends. As the demand for market-based climate solutions escalates globally, Sierra Leone is strategically positioning itself as an attractive destination for climate change mitigation investments.
Understanding the ACCR
The Association of Carbon Conservation and Reforestation (ACCR) serves as a trade association for the six largest private-sector carbon developers operating in Sierra Leone. The ACCR members include West Africa Blue, Rainforest Builder, Rewilding, Freetown the Treetown, Del Agua and Gola Rainforest. The ACCR was established by Invest Salone, a UK Government program, in response to a request from the Minister of Environment and Climate Change. The association aims to unite stakeholders within Sierra Leone’s burgeoning carbon credit sector, facilitating partnerships that restore natural ecosystems and improve local livelihoods through sustainable carbon finance projects.
Key Highlights from the Launch Event
During her keynote address, British High Commissioner Madam Josephine Gauld highlighted Sierra Leone’s considerable potential in the carbon market, noting that the country ranks among the top 20 globally for carbon stock and growth potential. She expressed enthusiasm for the sector, stating, “This is a very exciting sector that can create a new revenue stream for the Government. There is huge potential for the market to grow and develop, and to protect and enhance the environment. These projects offer long-term sustainability for Sierra Leone, and the UK is committed to working alongside the government and international partners to help Sierra Leone seize this opportunity.”
Madam Gauld also acknowledged the pivotal role played by Invest Salone in bringing together the private sector and supporting the development of Sierra Leone’s carbon market.
The Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Jiwoh Abdulai, welcomed the increased involvement of the private sector in carbon initiatives, describing the carbon industry as a vital area for economic growth. “Through such an association, they have the potential to bring a lot to the sector. As a Government, we also want to encourage the private sector and wanted the association to organize itself so that as we develop the framework and legislation, they can have a seat at the table,” he remarked. Minister Abdulai emphasized the necessity of transparent partnerships to inspire confidence among stakeholders, ultimately unlocking Sierra Leone’s rich natural resources and potential.
Ben Hampson, Chairman of ACCR and Business Development Director at Rainforest Builder, emphasized the association’s role as the collective voice of the private sector in carbon finance discussions. He stated, “Our members attract climate finance from some of the world’s largest corporations, channeling these funds into rural communities to restore and preserve natural ecosystems. This is not just the launch of an association, but the launch of an industry from which Sierra Leone stands to benefit hugely.”
Mr. Hampson shared impressive statistics about the impact of ACCR members, noting that they collectively employ 4,500 individuals, have planted 4.5 million trees, protected tens of thousands of hectares of threatened forest and mangrove ecosystems, and delivered 250,000 efficient cookstoves. He expressed optimism for the future, stating, “With the establishment of a Carbon Market Framework, these benefits will double and triple over the next 2-5 years. ACCR stands as the partner with the Government of Sierra Leone to put the framework in place as quickly and fairly as possible to ensure continued investment into this space.”
The Power of Collaboration
The launch of ACCR is expected to foster increased collaboration among its members, significantly enhancing ecosystem restoration efforts through various means. These include: 1. Efficient Use of Resources: By avoiding duplication of efforts, ACCR aims to maximize its impact on restoration projects.
2. Specialization and Inclusivity: Leveraging the diverse strengths and perspectives of its members will lead to more effective initiatives.
3. Knowledge Sharing and Innovation: The association will promote best practices and innovative approaches to carbon conservation.
4. Broader Scope and Scale: ACCR enables larger, integrated projects that can have a more substantial impact on both the environment and local communities.
5. Community Engagement and Capacity Building: Fostering local ownership and sustainability will be a key focus.
6. Building Partnerships and Alliances: Attracting new resources and expertise will enhance the effectiveness of projects.
7. Sustainability and Continuity: Ensuring the long-term success of projects is paramount for the association.
Through this collaborative framework, ACCR aims to drive more efficient, innovative, and large-scale restoration efforts that deliver both social and ecological benefits. As ACCR continues to engaging with policymakers and partners, it advocates for the establishment of a clear national carbon framework. This framework should be developed inclusively, involving government, communities, and the private sector to ensure effective regulation, foster investor confidence, and promote equitable benefit-sharing.
The launch event concluded with a vibrant networking session, reinforcing the collective commitment to advancing Sierra Leone’s goals in carbon conservation and reforestation. Through the ACCR, Sierra Leone is poised to make significant strides in its climate action initiatives, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future for its people and the planet.
