During a recent address at the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 29th Anniversary Dinner and Awards Ceremony, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips emphasized the Guyana Government’s unwavering dedication to bolstering the EPA. He celebrated nearly 30 years of the agency’s essential regulatory and stewardship efforts, referring to it as a cornerstone of the nation’s sustainable development objectives and a protector of a shared future.
Prime Minister Phillips acknowledged the EPA staff for their commitment to safeguarding Guyana’s natural resources, highlighting that successful environmental governance is rooted in principled and passionate individuals. “Recognition transforms a job into a mission, particularly crucial in environmental protection, where high stakes and ongoing challenges exist,” he remarked. He underscored the agency’s essential role in harmonizing economic development with environmental stewardship, addressing pollution, overseeing licenses, and educating the public.
He reaffirmed governmental support for the EPA, referencing the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) as the framework for sustainable growth that promotes community empowerment and climate resilience. While stressing contributions from sectors like gold, bauxite, and oil, he urged not to sacrifice long-term potential for short-term gains.
The Prime Minister further praised the EPA’s initiatives to combat plastic pollution and enhance public awareness. He noted the agency’s dual role in education and enforcement as vital for fostering environmental responsibility across all demographics. Concluding his speech, he expressed gratitude to EPA staff for their significant contributions and encouraged continued collective efforts to preserve Guyana’s environment, wishing them a happy 29th anniversary and hoping for even greater success in the future.
Source: guyanachronicle.com
