Guyana's natural environment is wonderfully varied and consists mainly of:
- Coastal flat lands
- Hilly & Sandy areas
- Forests of various types
- Mountainous regions
- Riverain areas
- Savannahs
The main environmental issues in Guyana include:
Gold mining - this is rocketing out of control, with the price of gold at an all time high, and concessions and permits given out freely. And so the once pristine interior of Guyana is being ripped up for the prospect of gold. Often the prospectors have no idea whether or not gold is present but they clear forest, dig holes and move on, until they strike gold. Hence creating unnecessary destruction of forest - and chaos in the unlucky Amerindian villages. Unlike for logging there is far fewer restrictions placed on miners, who are allowed to clear fell and even go unto forest concessions and clear cut when the loggers are not allowed to do so. The addition of Garamperos (Brazillian miners) makes the situation even worse since they are often more ruthless in their mining methods.
Logging - There is a rise in the number of sawmills and log exports, particularly with the demand in China. Native endemic species such as the Guyanese famous Greenheart is in danger of over harvesting. However the local government has placed stringent regulations and has slapped charges on several companies found guilty of infringements. This issues nevertheless remains a main threat.
Wildlife trade - many of our exoctic species of birds and other animals are hunted and captured for export.
Selected images around Guyana
