Policy Forum Guyana’s (PFG) “Waste to Win” challenge, an initiative aimed at combating plastic pollution, successfully wrapped up on Saturday at the Regency Hotel & Suites in Georgetown. Students from various regions across Guyana were honoured for their exceptional environmental efforts.
The competition was organised by PFG in partnership with Cevons Waste Management Inc and involved some 60 students from 20 schools collecting and recycling aluminium cans and plastic bottles. Through their collaborative efforts, an impressive 28,321 plastic bottles and 7,736 aluminium cans were diverted from Guyana’s landfills. Other sponsors were Ansa McAL Distribution Inc, and PBS Technologies.
PFG Project Coordinator Benita Davis thanked the students. “The enthusiasm and dedication displayed by these young individuals are truly inspiring. Their actions reinforce the notion that even the smallest efforts can make a big difference in combating plastic pollution. I am incredibly proud of our collective achievement,” Davis said.
Meanwhile, the outstanding participants received first to fifth place awards, creatively crafted from shredded plastic bottles that were collected during the challenge. Lusignan Learning Centre secured the top position in the aluminium cans category by collecting an impressive 1,490 cans, while the Bacchus sisters from Sophia excelled in the plastic bottles category, amassing an impressive 14,086 bottles. Other notable performances were also seen from students at New Central High School, Queen’s College, and Wisburg Secondary School. All of the participants, along with their supporting teachers, parents, or guardians, received recognition for their hard work, underscoring the collaborative approach needed to address environmental issues.
Meanwhile, Romina Softleigh-Moseley, a representative from Cevons Waste Management, thanked the participants for their efforts. “The commitment showcased today reflects the vision we hold for Guyana—a future centred around sustainability. These students are pioneering efforts to reduce our plastic waste, one bottle and can at a time,” she said.
The Bacchus sisters shared, “Participating in this competition was a valuable learning journey. We have gained a deeper understanding of the waste surrounding us and the critical importance of recycling.”
A teacher from Brickdam Secondary School noted, “This initiative not only engaged our students but also imparted valuable lessons on responsibility and environmental stewardship. We celebrate their accomplishments and appreciate the platform offered by Policy Forum Guyana.”
The event featured a poignant dramatic poem presentation titled “Plastikos” by Rovindra Persaud and Mark Luke Edwards, emphasising the urgent need to address plastic pollution. Concluding the ceremony with plaque distribution, photos, and refreshments, participants had the opportunity to connect and explore potential collaborations for future environmental endeavours.
In losing statements, Davis highlighted the broader impact of the project. “This competition has demonstrated that the youth of Guyana are fully capable of managing their waste effectively. It is a practice we must implement nationwide. I urge the Mayor and City Council, the Regional Democratic Councils, and the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils, with support from the Environmental Protection Agency, to commence systematic efforts in addressing the waste challenge in Guyana. The youth have illuminated the path—it is now our turn to take action,” she said.
