CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited (CPGL) is hosting its inaugural Secondary Schools ‘Green Energy & Renewables’ essay competition, the company announced in a release on Saturday.

Students from both public and private schools are invited to submit essays. Junior Secondary Students (ages 11-14) are invited to submit their essays on the topic of “Green Energy Ideas for My Community” and Senior Secondary students (ages 15-18) are invited to submit their essays on the topic of “The Effect of Renewables on Climate Change in Guyana”.

The Ministry of Education fully supports this essay competition and will encourage secondary schools to have their students participate. The ministry views the topics as very relevant to Guyana and its development at this time.
CPGL holds a 25 per cent working interest in the Stabroek Block, with partners ExxonMobil and Hess, located approximately 200 kilometres offshore Guyana.

“As a responsible company, CPGL views the environment as an invaluable asset and has responded to climate change challenges by implementing its own low carbon-green energy development strategy and is fully committed to being a resource-saving green company,” the release said.

Cognisant of the importance of a clean and healthy environment for the next generation, the company noted that the essay competition is intended to help youths understand the need for protecting the environment, especially as Guyana is headed into the future of oil and gas.

“We hope this essay competition promotes awareness among the youths of Guyana. As we shift gears focusing on low emissions and green energy as a company, it is important that we get this message out, that everyone should care what happens to the planet, especially as the numbers show that positive changes now will affect the environment for generations to come,” said President of CPGL, Liu Xiaoxiang.

He added: “We want as many young vibrant minds that care about the environment to enter this competition and share their ideas.”

To participate, junior secondary students must submit essays with a 500-1000 word count and Senior secondary students with a 1000-1500 word count. Students across Guyana will have the opportunity to win amazing prizes. Prizes include iPad Pros, iPhones and electric and kick scooters, and will be awarded for first, second, and third places. Interested participants can expect to see full rules and regulations in the local media.