– MoU signed in commitment to environmental collaboration

IN a concerted effort to preserve and raise awareness about the rich ecosystems within and surrounding Guyana’s coastline, the Guyana Marine Conservation Society (GMCS) collaborated with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Lab to organise its second scientific symposium.
Held at the Education Lecture Theatre (ELT) at the University of Guyana, Turkeyen, on Wednesday, the event focused on the theme “Foundations of Sustainability: People and Resources of the Barima-Mora Passage.”

The symposium, attended by students from the University’s Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences (FEES), various environmental organisations, and the general public, showcased the remarkable projects undertaken by the GMCS. It shed light on the significant efforts and profound impact of conservation in Guyana, particularly within the Barima-Mora Passage (BMP).
Puja Jaichand, the Project Coordinator and Research Manager at GMCS, emphasised the unique value of the BMP in global environmental efforts, highlighting the crucial role of the local communities. She emphasised the organisation’s commitment to prioritising the needs of these communities in every project undertaken.

The collaboration between GMCS and IDB Lab, titled “Securing the Future of the Barima-Mora Passage Ecosystems, and its Peoples,” facilitated the hosting of the symposium. Dr. Marie Correia, Chairperson of GMCS Board of Directors, outlined the project’s objectives, including raising awareness, engaging youth, and implementing natural resource management governance within stakeholder communities.
GMCS has already made significant strides in its initiatives, including providing training in various fields, establishing livelihood initiatives, and fostering partnerships with organisations like Conservation International. These efforts aim to not only conserve the BMP ecosystem but also empower local communities economically.

The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the University of Guyana and GMCS signifies a formal commitment to collaboration in environmental conservation efforts. Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin, Vice Chancellor of the University, stressed the importance of environmental responsibility and the challenges ahead in achieving conservation goals.
The university’s dedication to conservation was highlighted through initiatives such as the ‘University Tree Removal Policy,’ demonstrating its commitment to sustainability even within an urban campus environment.

The MoU signing, attended by Professor Mohamed-Martin and GMCS Vice Chairperson Dr. Arianne Harris, marks a significant step towards fostering partnerships for the greater good of environmental conservation in Guyana and beyond.