Recover Guyana, in partnership with the Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI) and the Ministry of Education, has spearheaded a water purification and sustainability initiative at the West Demerara Secondary School. Launched on March 24, the project provides clean drinking water through an advanced filtration system.
Aimed at reducing reliance on single-use plastic bottles and promoting environmental sustainability, the project is a model for environmental responsibility in schools across Guyana.
The initiative was first proposed in 2023 by Vasana Persaud, a Queen’s College student and winner of the 2023 SHOUT Competition. Its initial implementation at Queen’s College has already eliminated over 30,000 plastic bottles.
During the launch, Dr. Dave Lalltoo, President of Recover Guyana, explained that the project is about more than clean water. “The system transforms ordinary tap water into a clean, refreshing source of hydration using reverse osmosis and is uniquely designed to track saved plastic bottles, fostering a culture of responsible water use and conservation,” he said.
GGI Lead Alicia Bess-Anderson emphasized that tackling plastic pollution requires joint efforts. “The need for this project was evident. We recognized that single-use plastic bottles contribute to environmental pollution, and water purification is an ideal solution,” she said. She noted, too that the project extends beyond the school, benefiting the wider community and promoting environmental responsibility.
West Demerara Secondary School’s Deputy Headteacher, Odetta Alves, expressed gratitude for the project. “The teachers and students will make full use of this cutting-edge technology and will ensure its safety and sustainability for as long as possible,” she remarked.
Assistant Chief Education Officer for Secondary Schools, Sherwyn Blackman, delivered the keynote address. “Providing pure water within schools is definitely worth a celebration. This project supports an environment where everyone can thrive, an environment that is safe and contributes to long life.”
A look at the Greater Guyana Initiative over the years
The Greater Guyana Initiative is a US$100 million commitment by ExxonMobil Guyana, Hess, and CNOOC aimed at expanding capacity building and sustainable development in Guyana.
