This study examines the complex interplay between environmental conservation and the attainment of sustainable development goals in Sierra Leone. The research analyses the alignment of conservation initiatives with national and international sustainable development goals (SDGs), acknowledging the country's abundant biodiversity and its continuous endeavours to overcome socio-economic challenges. The study examines policies, case studies, and stakeholder interviews to delineate the synergies and conflicts between environmental protection and socio-economic development. The results show how important it is for communities to get involved, for governments to work well, and for countries to work together to find ways to protect the environment while also boosting the economy. The results show that there are serious problems with how policies are put into action, how resources are used, and how institutions work together. These gaps make it harder to reach the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The study shows that combining traditional knowledge systems with modern conservation methods can improve environmental outcomes while also protecting cultural heritage.  Ultimately, the research emphasizes the significance of integrated approaches to guarantee that environmental sustainability becomes a fundamental aspect of Sierra Leone’s developmental trajectory.

JEL: Q01: Sustainable Development; Q56: Environment and Development; Environment and Trade; Sustainability; Environmental Accounts and Accounting; Environmental Equity; Population Growth; Q58: Government Policy; Regulation; Public and Private Environmental Agreements; O13: Economic Development: Agriculture; Natural Resources; Energy; Environment; Other Primary Products

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