The importance of combatting plastic pollution highlighted during Earth Hour 2022

Earth Hour 2022 was held under the theme ‘combatting plastic pollution for the protection of our marine environment’.

At the Lights Out Event hosted at the National Park, Yeşim Oruç, UN Resident Coordinator observed that at the recent UN Environment Assembly “175 nations endorsed a historic resolution to end plastic pollution and forge an international and legally-binding agreement, by the end of 2024. The landmark resolution will address the full lifecycle of plastic, including its production, design, and disposal.”

During her remarks, Aiesha Williams, Country Manager, WWF-Guianas highlighted the need for ongoing review of policy and legislation to address plastic pollution. She encouraged the private sector, civil society organisations, and all people living in Guyana to play a part in protecting the environment.

The UN’s observance of Earth Hour 2022 was the start of its national communications and advocacy efforts to communicate to key audiences in Guyana about climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. These represent a so-called ‘Triple Planetary Crisis’ that requires urgent action by people, businesses and governments.

The Lights Out activity was also supported by the Environmental Protection Agency, the Protected Areas Commission, the Guyana Youth and Environment Network, Seawalls and Beyond, the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central, and the Lions Club of Guyana.