Partnership for Action on a Green Economy – Plastic Pollution 

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Guyana is playing a pivotal role in addressing the critical issue of plastic pollution through strategic and evidence-based interventions. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of plastic pollution—encompassing production, distribution, and waste management—UNDP is working to design comprehensive solutions that tackle the problem at its roots and foster sustainable practices in Guyana.

Through the Partnership for Action on a Green Economy (PAGE), funds have been allocated to Guyana to support efforts aimed at conducting a detailed baseline study. This study will serve as a foundational tool for shaping policies and practices aimed at promoting economic and environmental sustainability. The primary goal of this initiative is to generate robust empirical evidence that informs actionable recommendations to combat plastic pollution effectively.

Key Activities and Outputs:

1. Study Tour of Caribbean Waste Management Systems
   To draw valuable insights, a study tour will be conducted to review waste management systems in other Caribbean countries, with a specific focus on their approaches to managing plastic pollution. This will provide practical lessons and best practices that can be adapted to Guyana's unique context.

    

2. Materials Flow Analysis for Plastic Lifecycle in Guyana
   A detailed materials flow analysis will be conducted to trace the life cycle of plastics within Guyana, from production and importation to end-of-life disposal. This analysis will form the basis of a comprehensive baseline assessment, offering critical data on plastic usage and waste generation patterns.

    

3. Stakeholder Consultations
   Engaging local stakeholders is essential to ensure inclusive and contextually relevant solutions. Consultations will be held with community representatives, businesses, policymakers, and waste management experts to identify the strategies needed to enhance plastic waste management across the country.

    

4. Development of a Roadmap for Plastics Management
   Building on insights from stakeholder feedback and expert recommendations, a detailed roadmap will be created. This roadmap will outline actionable strategies for managing plastic pollution, including policy interventions, infrastructure development, and behavior change initiatives.

    

5. Public Awareness Campaign
   To foster community engagement and drive behavioral change, a public awareness campaign will be developed based on the roadmap. This campaign will aim to educate citizens about the environmental impacts of plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices, such as recycling and reducing single-use plastics.

    

UNDP Guyana’s involvement in this initiative underscores its commitment to advancing sustainable development and environmental stewardship. By addressing plastic pollution through a structured and data-driven approach, this project not only aligns with Guyana’s green economy aspirations but also contributes to global efforts to reduce plastic waste and mitigate its environmental impacts.