–issues advisory to nearby residents over air quality

THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and other authorities, is managing a fire at the Haag Bosch landfill, located in Eccles, East Bank Demerara.

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS), up to press time, was on-site, working to contain the blaze and mitigate its impacts.

According to information from the EPA, simultaneously, reports of smoke from another nearby location were under investigation, with the EPA closely monitoring air quality to assess potential risks.

Recent air quality monitoring has revealed elevated Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in Eccles, reaching thresholds deemed “unhealthy for sensitive groups.”
This situation poses health concerns for vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

“Conditions are expected to remain elevated for several hours before gradually improving overnight, though moderate air quality concerns may persist into the next day. Communities such as Eccles and Providence are likely to experience lingering smoke and odors,” the EPA said.

The agency issued precautionary advice for residents in affected areas. People were urged to limit outdoor activities, particularly strenuous exercise.
“If smoke is noticeable, staying indoors with windows and doors closed is recommended. Proper ventilation should be maintained, and wearing well-fitted N95 masks can help reduce exposure to fine particles,” the EPA said.

The Haag Bosch landfill is a critical waste management facility in Guyana, receiving approximately 400 tonnes of municipal solid waste daily from over 25 neighbourhoods.

The site employs the Fukuoka Method, a clean development mechanism aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimising risks such as landfill fires. Despite these measures, challenges such as weather conditions and training gaps have occasionally hindered optimal implementation.

The EPA said it will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary. Residents were encouraged to stay informed through official channels and co-operate with ongoing efforts to manage the crisis effectively.