The 40th anniversary of Earth Day was observed internationally on April 22.
As part of the observances here in Guyana, Scouts Guyana, on April 17, collaborated with ECO1, a relatively new environmental NGO, to facilitate an Earth Day Forum at St. Stanislaus College in Georgetown.

At that Forum, twenty eight young Scouts from several Scout Groups around Georgetown gathered at the St. Stanislaus College to learn about the significance of Earth Day. The Forum highlighted current environmental issues, the drivers behind environmental degradation and the role that each individual can play in conservation and environmental protection efforts in our day to day lives.

At the end of the Forum each participant made a promise of a ‘green act’ that they would perform on Earth Day and which they would endeavour to continue as a good habit. These green promises were written on paper leaves and fixed to the “Promise Tree” which was made of 100% pre-used material. The Scouts’ green promises include water and electricity conservation, tree planting, avoidance of littering and reduced reliance on motor vehicles for transportation.

The participants also drew up components for a “Green Charter” which would require the Scouts to include green acts in their routine scouting activities during the course of the year. This Charter is intended to promote and encourage all Scouts in Guyana to adopt more environmentally friendly habits both in their respective Scout Groups and personal lives.

This special day, designated each year, raises global awareness of environmental issues. This year’s focus for Earth Day is a Billion Acts of Green. The Earth Day Network also celebrates its 40th Anniversary this year and has made special efforts to boost the participation of individuals in countries all over the world.