Private sector crucial for advancing climate resilience in Guyana – Foreign Secretary

Guyana’s Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud, emphasized the critical role of private sector investment in addressing climate challenges during a roundtable discussion organized by the American Chamber of Commerce of Guyana, ACE Consulting Group, and the US Embassy.

The event, held on Tuesday, focused on the US-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030 (PACC 2030), highlighting key areas such as clean energy, food security, and climate resilience.

PACC 2030 aims to address the climate crisis with the goal of developing ideas for how Guyana’s private sector can best engage with US policymakers and industry leaders to advance mutual goals of clean energy, food security, and climate resilience.

Persaud urged the private sector to invest in innovative climate-smart solutions and explore joint ventures with US companies to meet the goals of both PACC 2030 and Guyana’s Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).

“The successful implementation of PACC 2030 would require greater public-private partnerships to yield more effective and efficient results for the benefit of all, because the climate crisis, food insecurity, and energy insecurity affect everyone, both rich and poor. The private sector in Guyana has an important role in meeting these challenges by contributing to the pillars of PACC 2030,” the Foreign Secretary said.

He urged the private sector to invest in innovative solutions, such as climate-smart mechanisms, irrigation infrastructure, and nature-based approaches. Tangible investments in renewable energy were also deemed essential.

Meanwhile, US Ambassador Nicole Theriot, during her remarks, stressed that the private sector must leverage platforms like the US-Caribbean Business Forum to foster partnerships and access funding.

“PACC 2030 is not just a policy framework; it is not something we just take off the shelf from time to time. It is an invitation to action and provides a platform to pool resources and expertise in tech to catalyze progress in areas critical to Guyana’s development,” the US Ambassador said.

She highlighted that Guyana’s rich natural resources and strategic location present unique opportunities for renewable energy projects.

“But the US private sector really does have extensive experience in clean energy tech, from hydro to wind to advanced battery storage and grid modernization, which is important for Guyana,” Ambassador Theriot said.

The Ambassador further noted that Guyana can benefit from the expertise of US companies in sustainable farming practices, crop resilience, and climate-smart agriculture to advance food security.

“By forging partnerships with US agro-businesses and leveraging funding from PACC 2030—yes, there is funding available—Guyanese enterprises can enhance productivity and resilience.”

“But in order to capitalize on these opportunities, it is crucial for you, Guyana’s private sector leaders, to proactively engage with US policymakers and industry leaders,” she added.