PFG releases educational material, app to address waste disposal

Children of Lake Tapakuma introduce PFG staff to their pet “Labby” (Labba – Cuniculus paca)
Children of Lake Tapakuma introduce PFG staff to their pet “Labby” (Labba – Cuniculus paca)

As World Wildlife Day approaches, the NGO Policy Forum Guyana (PFG) says that there are expected to be global shifts focusing on the intricate relationship between humanity and nature.  This year’s celebration, under the theme “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation,” underscores humanity’s collective responsibility towards safeguarding the earth’s biodiversity, PFG said.

Yesterday, the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission hosted a wildlife fair at the Guyana Zoological Park, uniting stakeholders, conservationists, and enthusiasts. PFG said it was expected to showcase groundbreaking initiatives to deepen the connection between humanity and wildlife.

“At Policy Forum Guyana, we are passionate about bridging the gap between humanity and the natural world,” a PFG press release quoted Programme Coordinator Benita Davis as saying. “Through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, we strive to empower communities to become champions of environmental conservation.”

PFG’s exhibit at the fair was a captivating freshwater board game, meticulously designed to highlight the interplays between Guyanese communities and four emblematic local species: the Arapaima, the Giant River Otter, the Black Caiman, and the Jabiru. This educational masterpiece, according to PFG, was undergoing mass production by the National Centre for Education and Development and promised to captivate minds and inspire conservation action across generations. Notably, PFG said, Peace Corps Guyana has generously provided support by deploying a virtual service pilot participant to aid in the digitization of the game.

Furthermore, the policy group said, it has unveiled “Kyle Learns about Freshwater,” a story that sheds light on the profound impact of pollution on freshwater species. Available in indigenous languages Akawaio and Wapishan, PFG said it is a powerful tool for environmental education and cultural preservation.

The NGO said it has also included the LittaReporta app in its publications. PFG said the app represents a revolutionary solution to Guyana’s solid waste disposal problems. To create a cleaner, greener future, citizens can report dumpsites and coordinate cleanup efforts using the easy-to-use application.

Committed to fostering informed stewardship, PFG has partnered with the University of British Columbia to develop informative infographics spotlighting the Bangamary fish. The visually engaging posters provide crucial insights into the fish’s diet, habitat, and threats, inspiring action to safeguard its dwindling population, the NGO said.