Guyana implements stricter littering enforcement amid tourism boom

Guyana is intensifying efforts to combat littering through public education and stricter enforcement as its tourism industry reaches record levels. Kamrul Baksh, Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, addressed these challenges during the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Georgetown.

To address the issue, the government is pursuing measures such as fines for littering. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has begun using video footage to identify and hold individuals accountable for littering. Baksh emphasized that while public attitudes are shifting, long-term success requires a combination of awareness and accountability.

The push for better waste management comes as Guyana welcomed nearly half a million visitors last year. However, experts note that the country faces broader challenges, including the need for reliable garbage collection, adequate disposal facilities, and sufficient funding to protect the natural assets, such as rainforests and rivers, that drive the tourism sector.