Unveiling a Greener Future: Glass-It-Up Upcycling Competition Transforms Youth Perspectives on Environmental Sustainability

In commemoration of International Youth Day, Saturday, under the resonant theme Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable Future, Policy Forum Guyana, in collaboration with artists NIIX (Nigel Butler) and Salvou Art (Mariah Lawrence), culminates an inspiring endeavour that bridges generations and champions sustainable practices. The resounding success of the Glass-It-Up Upcycling Competition marks a monumental step towards cultivating eco-consciousness among Guyana’s youth, government bodies, and businesses alike.

Aligned with our ongoing 1.5 Degree Lifestyle Campaign, this transformative competition came to a close on August 12, 2023 at the Conference room for the National Library. Focused on engaging youths aged 11-13, it united 45 participants into 15 dynamic teams, each embarking on a mission to transform discarded non-reusable glass bottles from public spaces into vibrant, functional art. These areas ranged from picturesque beach fronts and bustling seawalls to dynamic ballfields and cherished community parks.

The Glass-It-Up Upcycling Competition surpasses being a mere creative outlet. It stands as a potent educational platform, shedding light on the staggering volume of waste generated post-major events and illuminating the significance of upcycling in resolving Guyana’s pressing solid waste challenges. Even as the nation thrives on the economic prowess of its oil and gas sector, the initiative underscores the vital need to forge a symbiotic relationship between prosperity and environmental stewardship.

Commencing on May 22nd, this initiative saw spirited participation from esteemed institutions such as Lusignan Good Hope Learning Centre (LGHLC), Smith’s Memorial Primary School, Mocha Primary School, New Central High School, and Live Learners Edutainment Elite. A total of 1612 non-recyclable bottles, once blights on the environment, were salvaged. Not only does this underscore the magnitude of waste, but it also highlights the potential risks posed by stagnant water, a breeding ground for mosquito-borne illnesses such as Dengue fever.

However, the initiative’s impact extends beyond numbers. Participants, guided by the principles of sustainability, breathed new life into these discarded bottles, crafting exquisite vases, captivating art pieces, and intricate jewellery. Moreover, local businesses, including wine (La Tour Artisan Wine)  and seasoning companies, benefited from repurposed bottles, fostering a circular economy.

Policy Forum Guyana’s dedicated youth arm meticulously catalogued the collected bottles, unveiling trends. Marriott beach and South Ruimveldt emerged as prime collection sites. The predominant brands included Stag, Rude boy, Corona, Heineken, and Smirnoff Ice from Ansa McCal, and Diamond water from Demerara Distillers Limited.  Therefore these companies will implement measures that can ensure the reuse or recycling of these bottles or at least support organisations that are willing to reuse or upcycle their waste.

Beyond the competition, a resounding call is sounded for corporations to adopt recycling measures and event organisers to champion post-event cleanups, safeguarding the environment’s sanctity. The integral role of Guyana’s Environmental and Protection Agency, coupled with the Mayor and City Council, in enforcing waste management laws cannot be overstated. Neglecting this commitment not only poses environmental risks but exacerbates the rise of mosquito-borne illnesses, including Dengue Fever.

As Guyana’s Tourism Industry thrives, with landmark events like Jamzone and the Caribbean Premier League on the horizon, the Glass-It-Up Upcycling Competition serves as a poignant reminder of collective responsibility in safeguarding the environment’s beauty during and after these celebrations.

Winners of the Glass-It-Up Upcycling Competition:

1st Place: New Central High – 1028 Bottles

2nd Place: South Ruimveldt Team – 135 Bottles

3rd Place: Lusignan Good Hope Learning Centre – 79 Bottles

Acknowledging their efforts, winners will receive electronic tablets, valuable gift certificates, the enlightening book Rupununi Rediscovering the Lost World, back-to-school hampers, and all 63 participants will be given certificates of participation. This transformation was made possible by visionary sponsors, including Atlantic Marine Supplies, Sherwin Williams,  Mings Products & Services Ltd, Bounty Supermarket, The Gift Centre, Jars Zero Waste, Darthan Investments, Health Depot Pharmacy, World Wildlife Fund – Guyana Office and Teleperformance.

As the Glass-It-Up Upcycling Competition comes to a close, it leaves an indelible mark on Guyana’s landscape, a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and environmental mindfulness.