SLURC, in collaboration with University College London's Department of Geography, is also conducting research on the impacts of sand mining on coastal communities around the Western Area peninsula of Sierra Leone. This project seeks to understand how sand extraction affects local livelihoods and the environment and explores sustainable alternatives that balance development with conservation.

As part of this research, SLURC has hosted focus group discussions with stakeholders, including policymakers, environmental experts, and community representatives. These discussions are aimed at sharing experiences and identifying key challenges associated with sand mining.

This work forms part of SLURC’s broader mission to build the capacity of urban stakeholders in Sierra Leone and make critical urban knowledge more accessible and actionable.