BREATHING comes naturally, we come into the world knowing how to breathe. More often than not, we take this simple act for granted. In Guyana, we are blessed with lush green forests that contribute to reducing global carbon dioxide levels. However, in many parts of the world, persons are hospitalised from air pollutants, from smog-inducing ozone and other particles in the atmosphere. The World Health Organisation estimates that 7 million people die each year from causes directly attributable to air pollution. These striking figures have led to the UN Environment in selecting air pollution as the focus of this year’s World Environment Day celebrations and China to be the host country.

The UN Environment Programme annually organises events for World Environment Day, which encourages worldwide awareness and action for the protection of the environment. Since it began in 1974, it has grown to become the single largest celebration of our environment each year. World Environment Day is celebrated on June 5, in over 100 countries, including Guyana.

World Environment Day 2019 urges governments, industries, communities, and individuals to come together to explore renewable energy and green technologies and improve air quality in cities and regions across the world.

Air pollution facts:
92 percent of people worldwide do not breathe clean air;
Air pollution costs the global economy $5 trillion every year in welfare costs; and
Ground-level ozone pollution is expected to reduce staple crop yields by 26 per cent by 2030.

How the EPA regulates air quality
Air Quality Regulations 2000, these Regulations provide rules for the reduction and prevention of air pollution in Guyana. Any person who emits air contaminants shall register with the Environmental Protection Agency and a person who emits any air contaminant in the construction, installation, operation, modification or extension of any facility relating to (a) industry; (b) commerce; (c) agriculture; or (d) any institution, shall apply to the Agency for an Environmental Authorisation.

Air Quality and Noise Management Programme Area that ensures that the Regulations guiding these parameters are drafted into permits.

Awareness and education programs on the benefits of keeping a clean environment.

It’s our Anniversary!
For the Agency, World Environment Day is important because it is also the EPA’s anniversary. On June 5, the Environmental Protection Agency will celebrate twenty-three years since the passage of the Environmental Protection Act which led to the establishment of the Agency. The organisation has the responsibility to take the necessary measures to manage, conserve, protect and improve the environment. This entails that the Agency takes actions to prevent and control pollution; assess the impact of economic development on the environment; and ensure the sustainable use of Guyana’s natural resources.
This year, as we celebrate our anniversary, the Agency would like to encourage the public to take up small actions to #BeatAirPollution. Here are some examples:
Ensure your business is authorised by the EPA and you adhere to the permit conditions;
Make your homes and buildings energy efficient;
Use public transport or car sharing, cycle or walk;
Turn off the car engine when stationary;
Reduce your consumption of meat and dairy to help cut methane emissions;
Compost organic food items;
Switch to high-efficiency home heating systems and equipment;
Save energy: turn off lights and electronics when not in use; and
Choose non-toxic paints and furnishings.

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.