Freetown, March 2025 – The Association of Carbon Conservation and Reforestation (ACCR) has officially launched as a trade organization, bringing together Sierra Leone’s six largest private sector carbon developers. This move aims to unify efforts in restoring the natural ecosystem and improving livelihoods across rural communities in the country. The association began operating as a single voice for the private sector in discussions and consultations on carbon finance in November 2024.
The announcement was made during Sierra Leone’s National Forest and Climate Forum, held at the Bintumani Conference Center in Freetown. Under the theme “Protect Sierra Leone: For Nature and People,” ACCR Chairman and Rainforest Builder Business Development Director, Ben Hampson, highlighted the association’s mission to create a fair operating environment for carbon development projects in collaboration with the government. Hampson emphasized ACCR’s goal of ensuring widespread benefits, including job creation, economic growth, and ecosystem restoration.
ACCR comprises the following members, all of whom have invested significantly in carbon development projects across Sierra Leone:
- West Africa Blue
- Rainforest Builder
- Rewilding
- Freetown the Treetown
- Del Agua
- Gola Rainforest
Hampson explained that each company secures funding by attracting climate finance from global corporations, redirecting these resources to rural communities. Collectively, ACCR members employ 4,500 people in Sierra Leone, have planted over 3.5 million trees, and are distributing more than a quarter of a million cook stoves.
“The members of ACCR all follow the same mantra—restore and preserve the environment while improving livelihoods,” Hampson said. He added that this involves creating jobs, developing skills, enhancing agricultural productivity, and improving health outcomes in rural areas. ACCR members strictly adhere to the Customary Land Rights Act of 2022 and engage in a transparent consent process with community members.
ACCR has established strong partnerships with various ministries, including Environment, Finance, Trade, and Energy, as well as Agriculture, Land, Local Government, Justice, and Youth. These collaborations aim to maximize the positive impact on communities and further sustainable development in Sierra Leone.
Hampson praised the government for its efforts to establish a legislative framework and a Carbon Market Office to regulate the sector. “We are eager to work closely with the Government of Sierra Leone to enhance the flow of carbon finance and deliver greater benefits to communities,” he assured.
This initiative marks a new chapter for carbon conservation efforts in Sierra Leone, reinforcing the country’s dedication to environmental protection and sustainable development.