Guyana is at a pivotal moment in its development journey—rich in natural resources, poised for growth, and committed to environmental stewardship. In this dynamic context, the Energy, Environment, and Extractive Industries (EEEI) Unit at UNDP Guyana is playing a critical role in helping the country strike a balance between economic advancement and environmental protection. Through innovative, people-centered projects, the Unit is not only tackling climate change and biodiversity loss but also laying the foundation for a more inclusive and sustainable economy. By supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the EEEI Unit is directly contributing to the long-term development and prosperity of Guyana and its people.

Clean Energy for a Stronger Economy

Access to reliable, clean energy is key to unlocking economic potential and improving the quality of life, especially in rural and underserved communities. The Mainstreaming Low-Emission Energy Technologies project, led by the EEEI Unit, equips critical infrastructure like water treatment facilities with solar PV systems and energy-efficient technologies. These upgrades not only cut greenhouse gas emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, but they also ensure that more Guyanese have access to essential services like clean water and electricity. This is a game-changer for health, productivity, and economic opportunity in the hinterlands and other remote regions.

Similarly, the Just Energy Transition (JET) project is modernizing Guyana’s transport sector with solar-powered electric vehicle charging stations and targeted training programs. By building skills in green technologies—particularly for youth and women—the project boosts employment and prepares the workforce for a future shaped by renewable energy. These initiatives directly support SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), while helping the country diversify its economy, reduce energy costs, and become more resilient in the face of climate change.

Nature at the Heart of Development

Guyana’s forests, rivers, and wildlife are not just beautiful—they are vital to the country’s food systems, water supply, and cultural heritage. Recognizing this, the EEEI Unit champions the integration of biodiversity into national and local development through projects like the Global Biodiversity Framework Early Action Support (GBF-EAS) and the Umbrella Programme for NBSAP Updates. These initiatives help align national biodiversity strategies with global frameworks, ensuring that ecosystems are protected and that conservation becomes a central pillar of policymaking and planning.

The MBIM Project (Management of Biodiversity in Mainstreaming) takes this a step further by improving environmental practices in Guyana’s mining sector. In the hinterlands—where communities depend on land and water for their livelihoods—the project promotes mercury-free technologies and sustainable mining methods. This protects fragile ecosystems, improves health outcomes, and enhances the resilience of local economies. The result is development that is both environmentally sound and socially inclusive, contributing to SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Green Skills, Green Jobs, Greener Future

Environmental progress is strongest when it creates opportunities for people—and that’s exactly what the EEEI Unit aims to achieve. The HPMP Stage II project not only protects the ozone layer by phasing out harmful refrigerants, but also trains refrigeration and air conditioning technicians in safer, more efficient technologies. This helps build a skilled green workforce while reducing environmental and health risks across the country. These efforts support SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), while empowering Guyanese workers with new career paths in the growing green economy.

Sustainable Development, Powered by People

What makes the EEEI Unit’s work stand out is its people-first approach. Every initiative is designed to uplift communities—whether it’s through improved access to energy, more sustainable livelihoods, healthier ecosystems, or greater economic opportunity. By aligning environmental action with national development priorities, the EEEI Unit is helping to build a stronger, greener Guyana—one where no one is left behind.

Author: Colin Mattis, Programme Analyst, EEEI