Have you been thinking about what you can do to help safeguard the environment? Do you have some ideas on what can be done about environmental issues affecting your neighborhood and would like to explore them with the involvement of other members of your community? Then, why not form or join an environmental club! Starting and managing environmental clubs may be challenging but can also be a very exciting and rewarding experience. Engaging in club activities will give you an opportunity not only to identify and investigate environmental issues but can give you a voice in your community. As a member of an environmental club you will also be part of a wider network of environmental advocates who are working to achieve world goals aimed at creating a safer and sustainable environment.
Since 2000, the EPA has been encouraging the formation of Environmental Clubs in schools and communities. In fact, the Santa Rosa Conservation Club in Region 1, was the first environmental club to become affiliated with the EPA in 2000. Over the years, more than one hundred (100) environmental clubs have become so affiliated.

Vibrant and active environmental clubs emerge from choosing club leaders that can motivate and energize its members. As such, the qualities of persons chosen to be a club leader must be carefully considered. Potential leaders must be able to commit to the Club and its activities and to have the ability to involve all members in meaningful roles. Further, environmental clubs need to have a well thought out plan of activities which should be of interest to all members.

The EPA is ready to assist groups desirous of forming environmental clubs, particularly in developing their plan of activities. This is because the EPA considers youths and communities as very important in environmental conservation and management. Environmental Clubs provide a means to:

1. Promote environmental awareness and education, particularly among youth and community groups.
2. Enable a better appreciation of the environment and its importance.
3. Foster collaboration with other groups and organisations for enhancement of communities.
4. Provide hands-on experience in environmental activities.
5. Provide training to individuals and groups to enable them to make a difference.
6. Create opportunities for assistance from larger organisations and agencies that support environmental activities.
7. Provide skills in basic environmental testing and monitoring techniques.
8. Provide our country with a pool of environmental monitors and protectors.
9. Enable enjoyment of the natural environment and transform attitudes towards the environment.

Any person or group who wants to make a positive impact on society through community-based planning and action in the sphere of the environment can form an environmental club. This may include religious groups, youth groups, schools, community groups or even spirited individuals. Becoming affiliated with the EPA is a simple process and will give your club the opportunity to receive technical support.

Share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O EIT Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com or you can contact the Agency on 225-5467-9.