Dear Editor,
Thank you for publishing the article ‘Initiative launched to plant 10,000 trees in Bartica’ (SN, June 6). I wish to offer some clarification and additional information, though.
The Ten Thousand Trees Planting (3TP) Project was in fact, launched on June 9 at Eversham Post Office, Macedonia/Joppa Neighbourhood Democratic Council, East Berbice-Corentyne Region.
A similar ceremony was held on June 21 in West Demerara-Essequibo Region prior to the one to which your article refers, held on June 24 at Bartica, Cuyuni-Mazaruni Region.
The programme of tree planting is set within the context of the administration’s commitment to the creation of a green State, healthful environment, and sustainable path of development.
In particular, among the aims of the 3TP initiative are:
- strengthening constituency representative relations with communities;
- enhancing the aesthetics of community facilities;
- promoting local economic activities;
- facilitating greater community involvement in green agenda;
- improving community cohesion;
- reducing atmospheric carbon (carbon sequestration/social cost of carbon).
Further, over the next three years, the Ministry will collaborate with all relevant agencies to see our communities transformed both in terms of attitude and aesthetics where residents not only enjoy their environment but also are more proactive in caring and protecting it.
Participation by each LDO and the respective constituencies is pivotal to the success of the 3TP. Constituency representatives will be engaged to have residents from their communities identify locations for planting, where possible supplying the trees and maintaining and protecting trees. The 3TP will encourage the expansion of plant nurseries in various communities and generate local employment.
With this in mind, I have written to all chairpersons of municipal and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils as well as all 585 constituency councillors urging them – as well as other councillors – to join and partner with the Ministry to craft a ‘Tree Plan’ for their respective areas and to commence its implementation with the objective of fostering environmental beautification and creating a cleaner atmosphere.
Yours faithfully,
Ronald Bulkan
Minister of Communities
