The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said on Tuesday that it will soon launch a remote real-time monitoring system and platform to ensure those facilities that received authorization are in compliance with key environmental parameters.
The EPA said this is being done by way of satellite services, installed sensors for air quality index, and other monitoring mechanisms. The EPA said, too, that it is in the process of bolstering its assessment capabilities by procuring modern measurement equipment/instruments and analyses tools to take accurate measurements, and to make credible assessments of impacts of pollutants in air, water, and land. It stressed that this is a basic capability of any environmental regulatory agency for providing trustworthy and timely assessments of risks and corrective actions. The agency currently utilizes drone technology and has amplified the use of GIS and other digital technology for remote monitoring.
The regulator was also keen to note that its staff members continue to capitalise on the virtual webinars facilitated through international and local partnerships. To date, 81 employees have participated in virtual webinars focused on areas such as risk assessment and risk management, climate change and climate mitigation, human rights in Environmental Impact Assessments, reducing emission and air quality impacts, and building resilience for oil producers.
Additionally, the agency said it is working closely with the Ministry of Local Government, specifically the local organs to address the pollution issues within communities.
Further to the foregoing efforts, it has established a training unit within its Human Resources Department, conducted capacity building to manage noise complaints with the Guyana Police Force, conducted awareness sessions with private sector bodies on EPA’s processes and procedures, and coordinated capacity building workshops for Neighbourhood Democratic Councils to effectively investigate and resolve environmental complaints.
