Guyana’s small-scale gold mining sector is vital to the nation’s economy but also presents significant environmental challenges, such as mercury contamination and biodiversity loss. To address these issues, the Small-Scale Gold Mining Environmental Management Project seeks to create a more sustainable and environmentally responsible mining sector. This initiative focuses on strengthening the regulatory framework, building institutional capacity, and encouraging miners to adopt greener techniques. By doing so, the project aims to protect Guyana’s rich biodiversity, improve local livelihoods, and safeguard public health.

Objective and Target Audience

The project promotes environmentally responsible mining in Guyana’s small-scale sector, particularly in the Potaro and Mazaruni catchments (Regions 7 and 8). It directly targets miners, both indigenous and non-indigenous, helping them transition to practices that minimize environmental harm while maintaining their livelihoods.

Key Achievements

Considerable progress has been made to enhance the monitoring and enforcement capacity of mining sector agencies. With the procurement of advanced tools and vehicles, including drones, GPS devices, ATVs, and mercury analyzers, agencies are better equipped to oversee mining activities and ensure compliance with environmental standards.

The project has also taken a hands-on approach to demonstrating sustainable mining practices by identifying key sites within its intervention areas. These demonstration sites will serve as practical examples, displaying techniques that reduce mercury use and environmental degradation.

In addition to technical advancements, the project has prioritized community engagement and awareness. For International Biodiversity Day, it partnered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to host awareness sessions in Mahdia and Georgetown. These events highlighted the importance of biodiversity and responsible mining, fostering collaboration and understanding among stakeholders.

To ensure the project’s visibility and recognition, a branding package has been developed, complete with a logo, banners, and other materials, reinforcing the initiative’s identity and purpose.

A Commitment to Sustainable Mining

Through this project, Guyana is taking a bold step toward balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. By building capacity, fostering collaboration, and demonstrating the viability of sustainable mining practices, the initiative is paving the way for a greener, healthier, and more resilient future for the nation and its communities.