Environment and Climate Reporting

New Narratives supports dozens of investigations into extractives industries and climate, land and water justice in West Africa each year. We shine a spotlight on the impacts on real people here on the frontlines of climate change. In Ghana our work has focused on the dramatic impacts of air pollution. In Liberia and Sierra Leone we have shone a spotlight on mining and oil industries as well as climate justice. We have highlighted the work of changemakers and supported the work of civil society organizations bringing transparency to these crucial sectors. See some of our work here. We thank our donors – the Clean Air Fund, American Jewish World Service, the Swedish and US embassies in Liberia, and German Development Cooperation – for supporting this work.

Liberia: A Successful Greenhouse Venture Offers Climate Promise for Devastated Farmers, but Aid Withdrawal Clouds the Sector

By Aria Deemie, climate change reporter with New Narratives Summary erratic rainfall, drought, and rising pest infestations that are devastating harvests. WUNGKO FARM, Salala – The afternoon sun comes out after a sudden downpour on this farm, 50 miles from Monrovia, heating the nursery as workers gently lower seeds into tiny pots lined in long,…

Aria Deemie
Frontpage Africa

Ghana’s buses are filling with toxic fumes — and experts say passengers are paying the price

Adeeza’s breaths came in short, rapid bursts. As the bus rumbled from Bolgatanga toward Accra each inhalation felt like fire in her lungs. For the asthma patient, these moments signaled mortal danger — her body screaming that something was triggering her compromised respiratory system. Adeeza scanned the bus, desperately searching for the regular culprits. Strong…

Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith
A1 Radio 101.1

Residents pay price as Ofankor-Nsawam Highway project delays; health workers warn of rise in air-pollution related illnesses

The Ofankor-Pokuasi-Nsawam Highway was once a vital transportation artery for the local economy, but legal battles and government debt owed contractors have delayed the reconstruction by two years as surrounding communities face a range of problems. Key among them is their health. Experts warn the delayed project has become a major health hazard for over…

Prince Owusu Asiedu
Adom Online

Video: What is COP30?

This story is a collaboration with New Narratives. Funding was provided by the American Jewish World Service. The donor had no say in the content of this story….

Aria Deemie
Frontpage Africa

Liberia: Civil Society Urges Government to Deliver on Climate Justice Amid Ongoing Gaps

By Aria Deemie, climate change reporter with New Narratives Summary: Liberia’s civil society and community leaders on Tuesday urged the government to accelerate action on climate justice, warning that vulnerable communities remain exposed to worsening climate impacts despite years of policy commitments. The call came at the close of the National People’s Climate Justice Summit, a two-day meeting…

Aria Deemie
Front Page Africa

Explainer: What Is Climate Change?

By Aria Deemie, climate change reporter with New Narratives  Climate change is no distant threat lurking beyond our shores—it is here, reshaping the lives and livelihoods of ordinary people across Liberia and West Africa with every rising tide and failing harvest. Rainy seasons arrive late, flooding becomes more frequent, sea levels continue to rise, and homes…

Aria Deemie
Front Page Africa

Liberia: Experts Warn Deaths From Extreme Heat Are Growing as New Report Finds Last Year Was Hottest on Record

By Aria Deemie, climate change reporter with New Narratives Summary: · Monrovia experienced its hottest dry season on record in 2024. Climate models predict the city could face up to 118 additional hot days annually by mid-century. ·  Experts warn prolonged exposure to extreme heat increases the risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and pregnancy complications,…

Aria Deemie
Frontpage Africa

Liberia Looks to New Climate Change Adaptation Fund for Forested Nations But Experts Warn It Faces Major Challenges Meeting Requirements

By Aria Deemie, climate and environment reporter with New Narratives Summary World leaders at the 30th Conference of the Parties, the annual meeting of countries coordinating to halt climate change, formally launched the Tropical Forest Forever Facility, a new global fund with US$5.5 billion in initial support, designed to reward countries that keep their forests…

Aria Deemie
Frontpage Africa

Liberia: At Global Climate Summit, Government Pushes Ambitious Climate Goals as US Withdrawal Clouds Progress

By Aria Deemie, Climate Change Reporter with New Narratives Summary: The 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference kicked off this week, in Belém, Brazil, marking what experts say could be one of the most decisive moments for global climate action. World leaders, activists, and negotiators are gathering to chart a path toward limiting global warming….

Aria Deemie
Frontpage Africa