Standards Bureau commits to helping preserve the environment
THE Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) says it will continue to support the care of the environment by promoting standards that would help reduce environmental degradation and encourage preservation for future generations.
Joining other agencies here in observing World Environment Day yesterday, the Bureau noted that the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System (EMS) standard, for example, contributes significantly to reducing environmental impact while enlightening users about the effect the environment has on businesses.
“Implementing the requirements of this international standard,” says GNBS Public Relations Officer Lloyd David, “is an important step towards preservation, since it covers all environmental 
challenges related to water, air, soil, waste, biodiversity, ecosystem services, and climate challenges.
“The standard helps organizations to manage all aspects of the environment in a holistic manner.
As society struggles with issues such as natural disasters, deforestation, wildlife extinction, climate mitigation and adaptation, companies are continuing to recognize the need to manage their environment.
“Achieving certification of the ISO 14001 Standard certainly delivers commercial value to organizations, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions and streamlined waste management systems, as well as providing a better handle on business risk.”
And since the smuggling of wildlife is also undermining economies and ecosystems, fuelling organized crime, feeding corruption and insecurity across the globe, David said: “We need to quickly come to consciousness, and make a desperate effort to better understand and manage our impact on the environment.
“Every effort must be made to counter the illicit trade in wildlife, including the implementation of targeted policies. There is need to increase awareness campaigns and investments in community conservation and law enforcement. Many species remain at risk, and it will take a dedicated and sustained effort by each and every one of us to turn the tide.”
In underscoring the method that needs to be taken, the Bureau explained that citizens need to understand the damage illicit wild life trading and overindulgence are doing to the environment, livelihoods, communities and security.
As such, habits and behaviours must change, so that demand for illegal wildlife products falls. Through increased awareness and action, governments and international bodies must be pushed to introduce and enforce tougher laws to combat those still willing to engage in illicit activities that would jeopardize our environment.
On the other hand, it is time to recognize the critical role standards can play in preserving the environment.
