Guyana launches national push to modernise solid waste management with UNDP support – INews Guyana

The Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, today launched the development of the National Solid Waste Management Strategic Plan, with strategic and technical support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The initiative is financed through the Partnership for Action on Green Economy (PAGE), enabling Guyana to advance more sustainable, efficient and forward-looking approaches to solid waste management.

The process was formally initiated through an inception workshop that convened government agencies, local authorities, private sector operators, large waste generators and development partners. The engagement marks the start of a nationally led, consultative process to address the growing scale and complexity of waste management, as Guyana’s economy continues to expand and evolve.

Speaking at the opening, Katy Thompson, Resident Representative of UNDP Guyana, underscored the importance of strengthening how solid waste is planned, managed and governed across the country. She emphasised that effective waste management is not only critical for environmental protection, but also for public health, climate resilience and the overall quality of life in communities.

UNDP is supporting the Government of Guyana by providing technical expertise and global knowledge to guide the development of an evidence-based and participatory Strategic Plan. This includes a comprehensive assessment of current waste management systems, a review of regulatory and institutional frameworks, and structured stakeholder consultations to inform priorities, investments and practical solutions. The process is designed to improve coordination across institutions, enhance planning, and guide action on waste prevention, separation, collection, recycling, treatment and safe disposal.

Through financing from PAGE, the initiative also connects solid waste management to a broader green economy agenda. This creates opportunities for Guyana to move beyond traditional approaches and advance more circular systems that prioritise resource efficiency, recycling, recovery and sustainable consumption. In doing so, the Strategic Plan is expected to contribute to environmental sustainability while opening pathways for innovation, investment and green economic opportunities.

The Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development is leading the process in close collaboration with UNDP and key national partners, including the Environmental Protection Agency, municipalities and regional authorities, as well as private sector service providers. This inclusive approach is expected to strengthen national coordination and ensure that the Strategic Plan reflects both policy priorities and on-the-ground realities.

Once developed, the National Solid Waste Management Strategic Plan will guide Guyana’s efforts to modernise waste management systems, reduce environmental and public health risks, and improve service delivery across communities. It will also provide a clearer framework for investment, institutional roles and long-term planning, supporting a transition toward more integrated and sustainable waste management nationwide.

The inception phase, which is being guided by international Waste Management and Sustainability Practitioner, marks the beginning of a broader consultative process that will continue to engage stakeholders across sectors, ensuring that the Strategy is practical, inclusive and nationally owned.

 

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