By Josiah Williams
The Guiana Shield Strategic Dialogue, aimed at safeguarding one of South America’s most vital eco-regions, commenced at the Guyana Marriott with Prime Minister Mark Phillips emphasizing the critical need for collaboration.
In his address, Prime Minister Phillips stressed the urgency for robust discussions and collective action to ensure the preservation of the Guiana Shield.
With representatives from Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Brazil in attendance, the dialogue serves as a platform for strategic planning and coordinated efforts to protect this invaluable natural resource.
The Guiana Shield, a vast expanse of land spanning billions of years, holds significant biodiversity and provides essential services to the world.
However, it faces threats from environmental degradation and the impacts of climate change, as well as human-related activities like smuggling and mining.
Prime Minister Phillips highlighted Guyana’s efforts, including the Low Carbon Development Strategy and the establishment of protected areas, but emphasized the need for continued collaboration to address these challenges effectively.
The dialogue also underscored the importance of initiatives like the Guiana Shield Facility, which supports conservation efforts through rewards and compensation systems.
With its rich biodiversity and crucial role in global ecosystems, protecting the Guiana Shield requires united efforts and shared commitment from all stakeholders involved.