Part 1

THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the main regulatory body responsible for taking the necessary steps to ensure sustainable management and protection of the environment. But did you know as members of the public and citizens of this country, you have an important role as well to play in the protection and management of our environment? Yes, you do! While the things you do daily such as buying local, disposing of your waste properly and taking your reusable bags to the market are important, there are other ways your help is needed.

As you look around, you would notice that a lot of developmental projects are taking place. Did you know that you have a say in developmental projects? You do, particularly those which would require environmental assessment due to the possible impacts it might have on the environment and human health.

This week’s article will highlight one of the many ways members of the public can participate in the decision-making process to ensure that projects are implemented in a way that will not cause considerable damage to the environment. Let’s examine one of the many ways the public can be involved.

Read public notices
Once someone applies to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for an Environmental Authorisation and it is decided whether or not the person needs to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), the project is published in the newspapers. This allows members of the public to be aware of the project. A summary of the project will also be found on the Agency’s website. The public has the opportunity to share concerns, comments, recommendations etc. before the project commences. It’s therefore important that you pay attention to public notices and be in the know!

Attend public scoping meetings
What is a Public Scoping Meeting?
As part of the name suggests it is a meeting that specifically targets members of the public. When a developer/project proponent applies to the EPA for Environmental Authorisation to execute a proposed project and the EPA determines that an EIA is required, as part of this process, such a meeting is necessary. This meeting provides the opportunity for residents of communities surrounding the proposed project site to provide their valuable suggestions, recommendations and concerns about the project idea.

At a scoping meeting, the Developer and officials from the EPA are there to hear your thoughts about possible environmental impacts that should be included in the Terms of Reference to guide the EIA.
Join us next week where we will examine public scoping meetings further, including who organises these, what to expect etc.

UPCOMING PUBLIC SCOPING MEETINGS
Project Venue Time Date
Toolsie Persaud Timbers Traders Inc. (TPTTI) Itabali Community Centre 11:00h January 14, 2018

Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd. EEPGL, Phase 2 Development Hopetown Multipurpose Cooperative Society Hall/ Boardroom 10:00h January 17, 2018
Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd. EEPGL, Phase 2 Development No. 66 Inshore Fishport Complex 08:00h January 18, 2018

You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O ECEA Programme, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, Georgetown, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.