Guyana updates permitting framework to address new challenges

Guyana’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has published new guidelines for conducting and reviewing environmental impact assessments (EIAs).

The update consists of a generic manual and standalone annexes for the offshore upstream hydrocarbons, power, forestry, and mining sectors.

“The emerging oil and gas sector and potential for introduction of associated downstream industries suggests major economic opportunities and at the same time present a challenge for pollution control regulators, resource managers, environmental civil society organizations and those potentially affected by these new types of industries,” according to the EPA.

Financial assistance from the World Wildlife Fund and the Netherlands Commission for Environmental Assessment was used to hire consultants to update and develop the new guidelines.

The EPA reviewed international standards and best practice procedures for conducting EIAs and the EIA requirements of the IFC and IDB for securing project financing.

Although the transport and processing of hydrocarbons and the marketing and sales of refined products are not part of the upstream annex, these mid and downstream sectors may be covered in future guidance, the government agency highlighted.

The new documents are available here.