As we stand at the threshold of a new year, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issues a crucial reminder to developers and stakeholders across the nation. The last day of March 2025 marks the deadline for the annual submission of environmental reports, a pivotal moment for those committed to sustainable and responsible developmental practices.

The annual report submission to the agency is not merely a regulatory formality; it serves as a testament to the commitment of developers towards environmental stewardship. These reports provide a comprehensive overview of the environmental impact of projects, allowing the EPA to monitor, assess, and guide sustainable development initiatives across the country.

Developers have two distinct options when it comes to preparing and submitting their annual reports to the agency. Each option is designed to provide a thorough overview of the environmental impact of their operations.

Option 1: Description of Activities
The first option requires developers to submit a detailed description of activities carried out in the following areas:
1. Operation – Provide an account of day-to-day operations, including any changes or upgrades made during the reporting period.
2. Waste and Hazardous Waste/Materials Management – Detail how waste is managed, treated, and disposed of, emphasising any measures taken to minimise environmental impact.
3. Compliance, Monitoring, and Reporting – Demonstrate adherence to environmental regulations and standards, including monitoring processes and mechanisms in place to report any deviations promptly.

Option 2: Compliance with Permit Conditions
The second option involves reporting on activities performed to comply with each of the permit conditions outlined in the Final Environmental/Operation Permit issued to the developer. This option demands a thorough examination and documentation of how each condition has been met during the reporting period.

Two Ways to Submit Your Annual Report
To ensure a seamless submission process, the EPA provides developers with two convenient methods:
1. Online Submission:
⦁ Visit the official EPA-GUYANA website.
⦁ Navigate to the Annual Report section.
⦁ Submit the report to the EPA’s email address: epa@epaguyana.org.
⦁ Receive confirmation of successful submission.

2. Physical Submission:
⦁ Visit the official EPA-GUYANA website.
⦁ Navigate to the Annual Report section.
⦁ Download the Annual Report form.
⦁ Complete the form with accurate and detailed information.
⦁ Submit the physical copy to the EPA office by the specified deadline.

Embracing Environmental Responsibility
As Guyana strides forward in its pursuit of sustainable development, the annual report submission process becomes a collaborative effort. Developers, as key contributors to this endeavour, play a pivotal role in shaping a future where economic progress coexists harmoniously with ecological preservation.

The EPA urges all developers to adhere to the March 31, 2025 deadline for annual report submission.
Failure to seek Environmental Authorisation is a breach of the Environmental Protection Act, Cap. 20:05.

Let us collectively work towards responsible development that safeguards our environment for generations to come.
Together, let us build a legacy of sustainable progress, one annual report at a time.