Thematic areas of GSDS being implemented –input solicited from a wide cross-section of Guyanese

DPI, GUYANA, Thursday, May 10, 2018

The Green State Development Strategy (GSDS) comprises seven thematic/key areas, which Head of the Department of Environment, Ndibi Schwiers says is being developed with contributions from a wide cross-section of the society.

Speaking recently with the Department of Public Information (DPI), Schwiers noted that consultations are being hosted across the ten administrative regions with various sections ranging from government, the private sector, civil society, cultural and youth groups, as well as academia.

“We are also working with the University of Guyana and the University is assisting with the seven thematic areas with drafting,” she pointed out.

Schwiers said the ‘Green Conversations’ taking place across the country also offer the opportunity for Guyanese to have their say about what goes into the document.

She reminded that the GSDS represents the will of the Guyanese people, therefore, it is imperative that all Guyanese not only participate in drafting the document, “but that when the document is completed, we do all that is within our power to ensure that all the various elements of the document are implemented.”

As stewards of the environment, Schwiers pointed to the responsibility of each citizen to ensure that they protect and manage their surroundings in a sustainable way.

The department is working with the United Nations Country team, who are providing support in aligning the Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs) with the GSDS.

A July 2018 deadline has been set for the finalisation of the GSDS.

Just over a year ago, Guyana became a member of the Partnership for Action on the Green Economy, which means the country now has access to one million dollars for implementing projects and technical support from UN agencies.

 

By: Stacy Carmichael.