The Ministry of Local Government with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) today launched a nationwide consultation on a Solid Waste Management Strategic Plan.

The launch took the form of a workshop at the World Trade Centre, and saw extensive presentations and discussions on the proposed approach and baseline context for the plan.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Miguel Choo-Kang said in Guyana solid waste management remains a critical pillar of public health and environmental sustainability, and the strategic plan will streamline the country’s approach.

Choo-Kang said for too long, the approach to solid waste management has been reactive and centered primarily on disposal.

The Integrated Solid Waste Management Bill represents a decisive policy shift which embraces the comprehensive integrated and circular economy framework, the Permanent Secretary said.

The consultation is intended to “diagnose” the current state of solid waste management in the country, including institutional capacity, service delivery gaps and infrastructure needs.

Additionally, it is intended to establish a clear strategic road map that aligns with the provisions of the 2026 Integrated Solid Waste Management Bill.

“We recognize that sustainable solutions must incorporate the perspectives of regional administrations and municipalities, private sector operators, civil society and the communities we serve. It is through this inclusive engagement that we will secure ownership, accountability and long term viability.” Choo-Kang said.

UNDP Resident Representative, Kathy Thompson said as the country undergoes rapid development and expansion in different sectors, it is important to have a comprehensive strategic plan in place to address waste disposal and management.

“Today’s workshop is really part of a vital process strengthen how the Government of Guyana and communities and institutions of Guyana, plan, govern and improve solid waste management in the years ahead. We all know this is a matter of extreme importance to all of the communities and people of Guyana, and so it is really timely and necessary,” the UNDP Representative said.

Thompson said it is important to have an inclusive approach to the development of the strategic plan that would respond to the growing pressures on waste management systems in the country.

“The issue that we are dealing with goes beyond the collection and disposal of waste and it requires a systemic approach – it looks at regulations, it looks at infrastructure, it looks at the financing and then cross-institution coordination as well as public participation, awareness raising and understanding, which is the really important part of this work,” Thompson said.

Representatives from the various local government organs and regional bodies, government agencies and the private sector are among those being consulted in addition to citizens.

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