Alarming increase in fires: Deliberate destruction of Guyana’s forests will not be tolerated – MNR

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) and the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) have warned that the deliberate destruction of Guyana’s forests will not be tolerated, following an alarming increase in fires across several hinterland and urban areas.

The Ministry noted that while many of the fires have been observed in hinterland and urban locations, they pose a significant threat to nearby forests, potentially causing extensive environmental damage and negatively affecting wildlife.
In a statement shared on its social media platforms, the Ministry acknowledged that some of the fires are man-made, and in certain instances, deliberately ignited.
“The Forests Act 2009, Part 3, Clause 24, clearly states that no person may ‘throw down a lighted match or lighted and flammable material’ or ‘do anything else likely to result in any forest produce being burnt or damaged’. Any person(s) found to be involved in such activities will face the full penalty of the law,” the Ministry stated.
The Ministry also reminded citizens of their responsibility to promptly notify a forest or fire officer whenever a fire is detected. Members of the public were further encouraged to take all possible measures to extinguish fires and prevent them from spreading.
Meanwhile, the NRM emphasised that Guyana’s forests are a national asset belonging to all Guyanese, providing essential habitats for humans and wildlife while supporting a rich and diverse ecosystem.
The Ministry highlighted that forests also generate employment opportunities through logging and other forest-based activities, helping to improve the livelihoods of Indigenous and other hinterland communities.

In addition to their economic and ecological importance, Guyana’s forests play a vital role in carbon storage and provide other essential environmental services.
The Ministry further underscored the importance of forest conservation to the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, noting that forests remain a critical component of the country’s sustainable development efforts.
“The deliberate destruction and devastation of Guyana’s forests will therefore not be tolerated.” the Ministry reiterated.
A few days ago, a massive fire erupted in the backlands at Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara. The blaze reportedly spread across acres of grassland and sawmills, thus raising concerns for nearby residents
Firefighters, however, worked through the night to contain the flames and prevent them from spreading further. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and investigations are ongoing.