Related Sustainable Development Goals
GRID-Arendal's activities support the implementation of
the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Strengthening science-based ocean governance, tackling plastic pollution, and supporting sustainable marine ecosystems across West Africa.
The Challenge
West Africa’s coastal and marine ecosystems are under increasing pressure from pollution, unsustainable resource use, and climate change. Plastic pollution threatens marine biodiversity and coastal livelihoods, while limited access to science-based tools and knowledge can make it difficult for decision makers to implement effective ocean governance.
At the same time, the region holds extraordinary ecological and cultural value, including important fisheries, coastal communities, and critical habitats such as seagrass ecosystems. Addressing these challenges requires trusted partnerships, strong regional collaboration, and practical tools that translate environmental science into action.
The Project
To deepen its long-standing engagement in the region, GRID-Arendal is establishing an office in Senegal that will serve as a regional hub for West African activities. Building on more than two decades of collaboration with partners across the region, the office strengthens our ability to work closely with governments, regional institutions, and local partners.
The Senegal office supports countries by transforming environmental data into accessible knowledge products, decision-support tools, and capacity-building initiatives. These efforts help improve ocean governance, strengthen action against plastic pollution, and support the sustainable management of marine ecosystems.
Working with partners such as the Abidjan Convention, UN agencies, and regional organisations, the office helps connect science, policy, and practice to support healthier oceans and resilient coastal communities.
Our Transformative Approach
Our work in West Africa is rooted in collaboration and co-creation. The Senegal office enables closer partnerships with national governments, regional bodies, and local experts, ensuring that solutions are grounded in regional priorities and knowledge.
By translating complex environmental data into clear insights and practical tools, GRID-Arendal supports evidence-based decision making. Through capacity-building, storytelling, and policy engagement, the office helps empower decision makers to implement solutions that benefit both people and nature.
This approach aligns with GRID-Arendal’s broader mission of transforming science into knowledge, solutions, and action that respond to the triple planetary crisis.
Why It Matters
Establishing a presence in Senegal strengthens GRID-Arendal’s ability to support countries across West Africa in addressing shared environmental challenges. It allows us to scale solutions, deepen partnerships, and accelerate action on ocean health and plastic pollution.
By strengthening regional capacity and enabling science-based decision making, the Senegal office contributes to healthier marine ecosystems, more sustainable fisheries, and stronger environmental governance across the region.