THE Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) on Tuesday awarded five eco-lodges with an official Green Destinations-Good Travel Seal+ Certification for their role in environmental sustainability.

The award ceremony was a collaborative effort between the GTA and the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce.

Karanambu Lodge and Caiman House both received perfect 5-Star ratings, while Atta Lodge, Iwokrama River Lodge and Rewa Eco-lodge received 4.5-star ratings.

Representatives from the eco-lodges said that initially they had some challenges, but through commitment and hard work, they were all able to play a significant part in preserving Guyana’s beautiful flora and fauna.

The eco-lodges were awarded for their roles in combatting pollution and climate change, and for maintaining heritages, sustainable mobility, health and safety, and the eco-system as a whole.

Several initiatives were undertaken, among them contacting the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to protect wildlife and marine life, implementing policies to combat pollution, supporting local suppliers of fruits and vegetables, and providing employment to those living near the lodges.

In her feature address, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oneidge Walrond said the government is committed to its plans to make Guyana the number one destination spot.

While Guyana’s rich and untouched beauty is admired and loved by many, especially tourists, the Minister asserted that Guyanese must preserve it, not only for today’s people but for generations to come.

“Sustainability is key,” she said adding that this is not limited to tourism businesses.

She said that the culture behind the use of plastics needs to change. While some are leading the way to a sustainable Guyana and are recognised and commended, the Minister said that everyone needs to follow suit.

Minister Walrond said that her Ministry and the GTA are looking at the certification of other tourism businesses throughout the country.

“This is just a stepping stone for our country to be recognised in this manner and this has the full support of the government,” she emphasised.

The eco-lodges also received financial aid from the government, and in accepting their respective awards, they extended their gratitude.