A new water purification initiative in Region Three is projected to eliminate more than 5.7 million plastic bottles over the next three years, while expanding access to clean drinking water for thousands of students and teachers.
This is expected to be made possible with the commissioning of 15 solar-powered water purification systems under the National Water Purification and Sustainability Initiative (FLOW), benefiting some 8,692 students and 827 teachers across 166 communities.
Speaking at the launch on Friday at Tuschen Secondary School, Project Lead Dr Dave Lalltoo said the initiative is already showing measurable environmental benefits. He noted that more than 10,000 plastic bottles were eliminated within just five days of the systems being installed.
Beyond reducing plastic waste and improving access to safe drinking water, the programme is expected to save schools and families more than $685 million in bottled water costs over a three-year period.
The initiative has also generated employment opportunities across Region Three, including for plumbers, electricians, welders, painters, masons and solar installers.
FLOW is being implemented through a partnership involving Recover Guyana, the Greater Guyana Initiative, the Ministry of Education and Guyana Water Incorporated.
