IN response to an article which was placed on the November 29thonline edition of INEWS: www.inewsguyana.com, the Pick it up Guyana Campaign wishes to respond to the statements by APNU regarding the effectiveness of the campaign which is a drive to clean up our country through clean-up exercises, public awareness and collaboration among other governmental agencies, businesses and local communities.
The campaign is an initiative of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment which encourages all citizens to join the efforts being made and clean up their community as part of the “Pick it Up Guyana” campaign, to adopt more environmentally sound practices, to rid our environment of the unsightly litter and garbage.
While components of the campaign include supporting community clean-ups and other environmental enhancement initiatives, “Pick it up Guyana” seeks to address one of the main causes of improper solid waste management; the attitudes of citizens towards their environment through various public awareness tools, inclusive of on-going education sessions with students and community groups; and Volunteer Empowerment Workshops hosted in various regions across the country.
Additionally, the ministry provides policy directive in this regard through the drafting of the Anti-Litter Regulations, and imposing a ban on Styrofoam importation effective June, 2014.
It must be noted that the collection and final disposal of garbage falls under the purview of the City Hall and the Ministry of Local Government, through its Neighbourhood Democratic Councils.
Further, the Ministry of Local Government is the lead agency on solid waste management. As such, the ministry is currently finalising its Solid Waste Management Bill which is expected to enhance the on-going efforts for a healthier environment.
Meanwhile, the Pick it up Guyana Campaign is disappointed that INEWS did not seek clarification before publishing such inaccuracies by discrediting the efforts and achievements of the campaign which is still on-going and receiving the support of all agencies, government ministries and the business sector .
Pick it up Guyana
Environmental Protection Agency
Ganges Street, Sophia, Georgetown
pickitupguyana@gmail.com