Guyana’s growth must be balanced with environmental stewarship

Feb 27, 2026 Letters

Dear Editor,

As a public communications analyst, I am proud of my Guyanese heritage. I have witnessed our nation’s journey from the days of donkey and horse-drawn carts and pit toilets to a period of expanding infrastructure, international partnerships, and rapid economic transformation. Guyana’s development story reflects resilience, ambition, and the determination of its people to rise beyond historical limitations.

However, amid this progress, the state of our environment remains a pressing concern. For years, illegal dumping, indiscriminate waste disposal, and pollution have scarred our communities. From the streets of Georgetown to villages across Berbice and Essequibo, clogged drains, littered roadways, and contaminated waterways threaten public health, increase flooding, and diminish the beauty of our surroundings.

Guyana is not without institutions tasked with environmental protection. Agencies such as the Guyana Marine Conservation Society, the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Wildlife Management Authority, the Guyana Forestry Commission, the Protected Areas Commission, and the Environmental Protection Agency each play critical roles in conservation, regulation, and oversight. Their mandates reflect a national recognition that our forests, rivers, wildlife, and marine ecosystems are invaluable assets

Additionally, the Ministry of Local Government has been making strides through a national clean-up strategic process, working with municipalities and local authorities to improve sanitation and promote community responsibility. These efforts are commendable, yet they must be strengthened and sustained to create long-term behavioral change

Another emerging concern is hazardous waste management. As manufacturing and industrial activities gradually increase in Guyana, proactive systems for the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials are essential. Without modern infrastructure, strict compliance monitoring, and coordinated enforcement, the risks to public health, soil quality, and water sources could become severe and costly.

Guyana’s growth must be balanced with environmental stewardship. Development without sustainability undermines future prosperity. Stronger inter-agency collaboration, public education, private sector accountability, and consistent enforcement of environmental laws are necessary to ensure that our progress does not come at the expense of preservation. If we are to truly honor our heritage and secure a resilient future, environmental responsibility must stand alongside economic advancement as a pillar of national pride

Sincerely,

Mr. Blane R Bunbury

Public Communications Analyst & community advocate

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