The European Union (EU), believes that Guyana’s balance of oil extraction and the preservation of the environment will be a difficult task. However, it can be done. Citizens and civil society must be vigilant and persistently remind leaders and policymakers of the importance of that balance.
On Wednesday, Fernando Ponz Cant, EU Ambassador to Guyana, answered a question from Stabroek News about the perceived incompatibility of Brussels aid for mangrove protection and Brussels aid to sea defenses. However, the growth of the oil-and-gas industry has led to the removal of large swathes of natural sea barriers. This could increase the climate burden and contribute towards rising sea levels.