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Figure 8.1:
Assessment of environmental pressures and socio-economic benefits
export of iron ore and other minerals. The areas affected
include Port-Loko district in the north of the country and
the upper reaches of the Sierra Leone River in particular.
Presently there is moderate pressure on the coastal and
marine environment of the country emanating from the
development of ports and harbours. Socio-economic
benefits are high and rising as new port developments
are underway. In Sierra Leone the transportation systems
of land, air and sea are somewhat heavily linked with the
coastal areas. Freetown for instance has the main seaport,
while the international airport is located on the Lungi
landmass, which is a coastal landmass.
8.4. Submarine cables and pipelines
The environmental pressures caused by submarine cables
and pipelines are low. Socio-economic benefits are high
considering the value for communication and transport.
8.5. Offshore hydrocarbon industries
Exploration and prospecting for oil and gas is in progress.
Oil pollution of the beaches from sources external to Sierra
Leone is a common characteristic, being normally very
weak but sometimes quite heavy thus creating a temporary
serious nuisance. At this stage no visible effect on the coastal