WHILE the world often praises Guyana for its pristine rainforests and low deforestation rates, a less visible reality is unfolding: Mining is now the leading driver of forest loss. This silent threat risks undermining the very reputation that gives Guyana its global environmental standing.
As mining expands deeper into the interior—particularly in Regions One (Barima-Waini), Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), where gold and diamond mining are prevalent—it has become the leading driver of deforestation and environmental degradation in the country, despite national deforestation rates remaining relatively low.

Mining: Economic backbone with environmental costs
Mining remains one of Guyana’s most lucrative industries, significantly contributing to the national GDP, and providing employment across remote hinterland communities. However, this economic lifeline comes at an environmental cost.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in collaboration with the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), has highlighted that activities such as river dredging, land clearing, and the use of hazardous chemicals, including mercury, are having increasingly visible impacts on biodiversity, water quality, and public health.
Although regulations under the Environmental Protection Act, Cap 20:05, and the Mining Act of 1989, along with the Mining Regulations of 2005, exist, enforcement remains a challenge, especially in more remote areas.

Environmental Fallout: EPA Monitoring Key ImpactsSoil Degradation
• Excessive excavation leads to erosion and loss of fertile topsoil.
• Sediment run-off clogs rivers and impairs agricultural viability.
Water Pollution
• The discharge of heavy metals and suspended solids poses a threat to aquatic ecosystems.
• The use of mercury and cyanide in processing has led to contamination of drinking water and fish stocks.
• Improper waste disposal contributes to rising health concerns in mining communities.
Biodiversity Loss
• Mining disrupts critical habitats and forces wildlife migration.
• Mercury bioaccumulation threatens both wildlife and human health through the food chain.
Air Pollution
• Dust and open burning of mercury amalgam have been linked to respiratory illnesses.
• Prolonged exposure to airborne pollutants poses long-term health risks.
Visual and Aesthetic Damage
• Deforestation and unregulated mining operations scar the natural landscape.
• Abandoned mining pits and man-made structures affect the eco-tourism potential.
Deforestation: A Growing Threat Beyond Mining
The EPA warns that deforestation, driven largely by mining and logging, carries broader consequences for Guyana’s climate and biodiversity. Forest loss is contributing to:
• Soil erosion and increased sedimentation in rivers.
• Loss of carbon sinks, increasing carbon dioxide emissions.
• Disruption of rainfall patterns and risk of desertification in heavily mined areas.
• Threats to Indigenous lifestyles and forest-related livelihoods.

These changes pose significant threats to Indigenous communities and others whose livelihoods depend on healthy, intact forests.Communities Bear the Social and Cultural Burden
Beyond environmental degradation, mining activities are taking a significant social and cultural toll, particularly on Indigenous and forest-dependent communities. Occupational hazards at mining sites remain high, while Amerindian villages face displacement, cultural disruption, and rising health risks.
Diseases such as malaria and dengue have also increased in mining regions, and land conflicts involving agriculture, forestry, and eco-tourism are becoming more frequent. While mining has brought economic benefits and improved infrastructure to some areas, the EPA emphasises that sustainable practices are essential to prevent long-term harm to both communities and ecosystems.

Policy and Restoration Efforts Underway
To combat these environmental threats, the government, through the EPA and GGMC, has launched several initiatives:
• Land Reclamation Projects: A 23-hectare site at Dakoura is undergoing restoration, with native species such as Tauroniro and Bloodwood being replanted to revive the ecosystem.
• Reforestation Target: GGMC is spearheading an ambitious project to reforest 200,000 hectares of land impacted by mining, agriculture, and infrastructure development.
• Mineral Mapping Investment: A GY$400 million initiative, funded in the 2024 national budget, will provide more accurate geological data to reduce unnecessary land clearing.

The EPA continues to advocate for responsible mining practices, urging miners to adopt environmentally sound techniques and comply with existing regulations. While economic development remains a national priority, the environment is not an infinite resource. What we do today will determine the sustainability of our future.
As Guyana moves forward with balancing development and environmental stewardship, the EPA remains a key player in shaping a greener, more resilient future.