Latest update December 19th, 2024 3:22 AM
Is the EPA serious about implementing new litter laws?
Even with the advent of the Litter Enforcement Regulations 2013, the lawlessness of indiscriminately dumping waste seems to continue. Apparently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is not prepared to enforce the regulations.
For weeks, personnel of the EPA have been informing business operators and individuals of the regulations made under the Environmental Protection Act, 11 of 1996. The regulation provides that any individual found guilty of an offence will be liable to a fine of $50,000, while a corporate body will be issued a fine of $100,000.
In addition, business operators were encouraged to inform the EPA of companies or individuals who are litter bugs. It has been observed that some members of the business community have been paying vagrants to dispose of their waste. Without receptacles readily available, the vagrants only relocate the waste from one place to another.
But, as it related to complaints reaching the EPA, nothing could be done until the public awareness campaign is over and litter wardens are appointed.
According to an Environmental Officer, the EPA is unable to approach litter bugs or enforce the regulations at this juncture. “The EPA needs to complete its public awareness campaign and hire litter wardens.” The officer opined that City Hall should step in since its role in keeping the City clean still obtains.
However, City Hall seems to have taken a step back to allow the EPA to enforce its regulations.
Last Friday, a businessman operating at the corner of Regent and Light Streets informed City Hall about construction waste which was left by a contractor operating on behalf of the Guyana Water Incorporated, in front of his premises.
The man claimed that City Hall refused to act and so he called the EPA and spoke to an Environmental officer (name given) and was advised that the agency cannot do anything. He was referred back to City Hall.
The businessman said he is confused about the actions of both agencies, but moreso the EPA, since the name of the litter bug was provided and nothing was done. He said for years neglect to the garbage situation in and around Georgetown has left many business persons displeased with City Hall.
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