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guyanatimesgy.com
thursday, november 28, 2013
Views Editor: Nigel Williams Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134 Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com
Editorial
Banning Styrofoam G
overnment has sounded the warning recently that it will be moving to ban the use of Styrofoam with effect from June 2014. The Private Sector Commission (PSC) and the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) have endorsed the plan to significantly scale back the importation of Styrofoam. Other stakeholders are also in support. A few persons, especially importers of the product, are complaining that the time given for the ban to take effect is too short and are making the necessary demands on the authorities to be a bit more flexible. We understand the anxieties expressed by these stakeholders, and hope that the government will give serious consideration to extending the timeframe for the switch. The suggestion for government to grant a three- to sixmonth waiver of taxes to businesses to make the transition from Styrofoam to biodegradable and less harmful materials is a reasonable one. In “How Styrofoam is bad for the environment”, Karen Frazier explains that Styrofoam has become such an accepted everyday product that people do not even realise that it is made from polystyrene. Polystyrene is a petroleum-based plastic, which gained popularity because it is lightweight, offers good insulation properties that keep products cold or hot, and keeps things safe during the shipping process without adding weight. While there are some positive aspects of the use of the product, Styrofoam has severe harmful effects and it is better to not use it. Environmental health concerns start with the elements used to make Styrofoam. Styrene is the foundational ingredient used to make polystyrene, which is widely used to manufacture plastics, resins, and rubber. Frazier points to the fact that Styrofoam appears to last forever, as it is resistant to photolysis, or the breaking down of materials by protons originating from a light source. The fact that Styrofoam is lightweight means that over time a great deal of polystyrene will accumulate along coasts and waterways which could have negative effects to plants and animal life. What many of us do not know is that when Styrofoam containers are used for food, chemicals can contaminate the food, affecting human health and the reproductive systems, especially if the food is reheated while still in the container. Stakeholders must examine the issue of plastics in general and the harmful effects they have on the environment. There were calls made before for a national policy on the issue of plastics. Where there is no systematic sorting, collection, and recycling of plastic bags, the thousands discarded become an environmental hazard and a major challenge to drainage and sanitation, among other challenges. The Guyana Consumers’ Association (GCA) had started some lobbying efforts to get the government to seriously consider banning the use of plastic bags and to look at alternatives such as paper bags, baskets and cloth bags to carry items such as foodstuff. As it relates to the issue of recycling of plastics, we believe that given the apparent lack of interest in the initiative by the private sector so far, government should lead the way in promoting a recycling initiative of its own and hopefully the private sector will join in. As it relates to the issue of Styrofoam, it is well accepted that the ban is necessary. Hence all stakeholders must work with the authorities in ensuring that there is a smooth transition from Styrofoam to materials that are much safer for our environment and for humans in general. While the authorities are looking at enforcing an outright ban on Styrofoam next year, it is necessary that they, almost immediately, commence a massive public awareness and education campaign aimed at getting consumers to reduce the use of Styrofoam. Consumers must also be encouraged to support businesses that are gradually moving away from the use of the product. Further, government must work with all stakeholders to ensure that individuals and businesses are given the necessary support and guidance in the entire process.
A man sweeps burning charcoal as he participates in the traditional ritual called “Lianhuo”, or “fire walking”, in Pan’an county, Zhejiang province, China, November 25 (Reuters/Stringer)
Showing compassion to the mentally challenged Dear Editor, A man was recently killed in what appeared to be a hit-and-run accident on the Essequibo Coast. He was no stranger to the area where he met his demise. The mentally unstable man would often walk about the area and has, over time, become well known by many. Several vagrants have
taken up residence on many of Guyana’s streets and there is no doubt that if they pose a threat to society and road users, they should be removed. These individuals have basic needs just like each and every one of us. They are hungry, thirsty, and tired. Though they may be mentally challenged, they
are still human beings and should not be abused. It is important that we display awareness and caution when we are in the presence of individuals of unsound mind, since no one can predict a violent outburst. Blaming the government and the family members of vagrants will not solve the
problem. As good people, we must make a concerted effort to be compassionate towards these individuals until they can be taken off the streets. Yours faithfully, Wendella Jones
More must be done to keep our roads safe
Dear Editor, Reckless drivers and the frequent occurrence of road accidents are becoming too popular in Guyana. At present, countless reports have been made of incidents where people’s lives were claimed on Guyana’s roadways. Though not all accidents are fatal and some individu-
als manage to survive these horrific encounters, it is becoming, more and more, a grave matter of concern. Almost every day, innocent lives are lost at the hands of reckless, irresponsible drivers. These drivers must be held accountable for their actions. Causing death by driving is just as malicious as any criminal activ-
ity. Most of the drivers who find themselves in this position are often guilty of breaching traffic and road regulations. I urge the relevant authorities to address this matter immediately. Drivers who are responsible for the loss of innocent lives should have their licences suspend-
ed and should face the consequences that they so deserve. Every effort must be made to make our roadways safe. The current steps don’t seem to be enough. Sincerely, Name withheld by request
Our soaring rice production Dear Editor, The rice industry is continuing on its upward, record-breaking spiral as it manages to surpass the predicted target for 2013. Rice is more than in abundance in Guyana, and we must determine how we will ensure maximum use of this outstanding supply. White rice, especially of
the short-grain type, is high in nutrients. It is considered as a staple food in many parts of the world. However, it is not a complete protein and does not contain all of the necessary and essential amino in sufficient amounts for good health, and it is for this reason that rice is often eaten with foods rich in protein such as beans, fish, or
meat. Aside from being served as a main dish, there are many other ways we can eat rice, including in the form of porridges and puddings. I urge individuals to continue to explore the different meals that we can make using rice. Rice has many health benefits, some of which in-
clude its ability to provide energy, regulate and improve bowel movements, stabilise blood sugar levels, and slow down the aging process. Our soaring rice production can only be a good thing for Guyana. Truly, Nirmala Roopnarine