The Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development has launched a national round of stakeholder engagement on a proposed Integrated Solid Waste Management Bill, aimed at modernising Guyana’s waste management system and strengthening environmental protection.
The consultation, held on Thursday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), brought together representatives from all 10 administrative regions, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) from the East Coast and East Bank of Demerara, and key municipal leaders, including the Mayors of Georgetown, Linden and New Amsterdam.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, in her feature address, stressed that Guyana needs a comprehensive, coordinated approach to solid waste management, noting that the proposed legislation is intended to tackle long-standing challenges while positioning the country for modern, sustainable practices.
While the government is examining models such as recycling and waste diversion, including waste-to-energy systems and converting waste into fertiliser, Manickchand said the immediate priority is expanding properly engineered landfill facilities across all regions to replace traditional dumpsites and create a foundation for future recycling and recovery initiatives.
The minister also pointed to the need for sustained collaboration among central government, local authorities, regulatory agencies and communities, arguing that effective waste management requires shared responsibility at every level.
According to the ministry, the proposed Bill would create a modern legal and regulatory framework governing the collection, transportation, treatment, recycling, and disposal of waste.
Key measures outlined include a graduated enforcement regime focused on compliance through notices and corrective orders, with fines and imprisonment available for persistent or serious breaches.
The Bill also proposes a formal electronic waste (e-waste) management framework, incorporating mechanisms such as Extended Producer Responsibility for safer collection, treatment and disposal of hazardous electronic materials and the integration of oil and gas waste into the national system, while maintaining EPA oversight.
Other provisions include requirements for financial security from waste management operators to ensure funding is available for site closure, post-closure care, and environmental remediation, along with stronger licensing, permitting, and institutional coordination to clarify roles, improve accountability, and enhance service delivery nationwide.
Presentations were delivered by Permanent Secretary Miguel Choo-Kang, Director of Sanitation Satrohan Nauth, and Legal Consultant Rommel St Hill, who provided technical and legal perspectives on the proposed legislation and its implementation framework.
Stakeholders were able to submit feedback, raise concerns and make recommendations as the Bill is refined ahead of further review by the Attorney General’s Chambers, Cabinet and Parliament.
