[www.inewsguyana.com] – In observance of the Annual International Coastal Clean – Up (ICC), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Saturday September 21 held a cleanup exercise at the Seawall Bandstand, Georgetown.
The ICC is observed around the world on the third Saturday in September, under the theme “Fighting for trash free seas”.
“From forgotten picnic utensils to tampon applicators, every piece of trash has the chance of becoming marine debris,” the EPA said.
The Agency further added, “Indeed, not all of the marine debris found locally on our shores may have originated from us here in Guyana. Marine debris also drifts onto our shores from other countries where improper disposal may also be a public health issue. Marine debris is therefore everybody’s business.”
According to the EPA, the observance of this day shouts out the need for environmental sustainability and effective solid waste management.
“Although we should keep, every part of our environment clean; the main aim of the activity is to provide data on the types and sources of debris found on the coast. This data could be used for academic research as well as by policy makers. Additionally, the data is used to advocate for corporate social and environmental responsibility from our business sector.”
Worldwide, more than 305, 000 people removed over 7.7 million pounds of debris from more than 11,000 miles of shoreline. The Environmental Protection Agency has collaborated with other partners over the years to mobilize more than 200 volunteers, annually not only to clean up the coastlines but also to encourage behavioural change through active participation.
The EPA, in collaboration with Pick it up Guyana, under the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment, have mobilized hundreds of volunteers from schools, NGOs, Private Sector and Government Organisations to pledge their allegiance to the cause of environmental cleanliness by participating in cleanup activities in various regions across Guyana.
The activity also aims to sensitize persons on the importance of a clean and healthy environment.
