…book marks significant step in promoting marine conservation, marine education
First Lady Arya Ali speaking at the launching of the book on Thursday
Marking a significant step within Guyana’s environmental conservation efforts, the “Arya Takes A Swim” book, named after First Lady Arya Ali, was launched on Thursday at the Marriott Hotel.
Derived from the Turtle Telemetry Programme that took place in May and June 2023 at Shell Beach, “Arya Takes a Swim” is a tribute to Guyana’s First Lady, in recognition of her unwavering commitment to environmental conservation.
The central character of the book is a green turtle named “Arya”. The book aims to ignite environmental conservation passion and awareness among children, encouraging them to explore and protect the marine environment. The launch brought together speakers from key partner organisations who shared their insights and praised the initiative.
Managing Director of Environmental Management Consultants (EMC), Shyam Nokta; Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Guo Haiyan; and President of ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, Alistair Routledge, among the gathering at the book launch
Speaking at the launching, the First Lady expressed her delight and endorsement for the initiative, stating “It is an honour to have “Arya Takes a Swim” named in her honour, but it was a bigger honour to be involved in an important project like this that raises awareness of turtle conservation.
Commissioner of the Protected Areas Commission, Jason Fraser, who spoke at the event, emphasised the importance of safeguarding sea turtle habitats, noting, “The Protected Areas Commission is dedicated to the stewardship of places like Shell Beach, where turtles like Arya nest and hatch. By protecting these special habitats, we safeguard the future of marine creatures and instil in young minds the value of preserving our natural world.”
Meanwhile, Deputy Director of the Environmental Protection Agency, Sharifa Razack, who was present at the event, highlighted the collective effort behind the book. “Collaboration is key as we strive for high environmental literacy in a society that is versed in and passionate about environmental conservation,” she declared.
According to her, this requires a collective effort from Government and the Private Sector, Non-Governmental Organisations and communities. Director of the Protected Areas Commission, Ryan Toolsiram, who was also at the event, emphasised the importance of safeguarding sea turtle habitats, particularly protected areas.
He then exposed persons at the event to the idea of protecting these special habitats, which will safeguard the future of marine creatures and be instilled into the young minds of Guyana.
Speaking at the launch, Managing Director of Environmental Management Consultants (EMC), Shyam Nokta reflected on the book role in educating the youth, stating that through a proposed programme new insights into the lives of turtles will be given. “Through the Turtle Telemetry Programme, we gain invaluable insights into the lives of marine turtles, documenting these findings helps to capture our imagination and showcase the beauty and importance of marine life,” he said.
Also speaking at the event was President of ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, Alistair Routledge. He underscored the corporate commitment to environmental education, stating, “The turtle telemetry project is just one example of the investments ExxonMobil Guyana is making in environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation programmes. By collaborating on initiatives like this, we can all make a meaningful difference in preserving our environment and protecting precious species like turtles,” he said. “We applaud EMC, First Lady Arya Ali and everyone involved in making this inspiring and educational book possible.”
“Arya Takes a Swim” is set to feature prominently in the upcoming World Turtle Day celebrations and other key events, further emphasising its role in conservation awareness. (G2)
