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Environmental issues facing Barbados will be brought to the fore by the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) next week when it hosts activities in celebration of Environment Month.
The first activity will take the form of a Vehicle Maintenance Facility seminar, which will be held at the National Union of Public Workers’ headquarters, Dalkeith Road, St. Michael, on Tuesday, June 19, from 8:30 a.m. until noon.
This seminar is targeted at owners and operators of autobody workshops, especially those which may be in violation of the Health Act, to educate them about the dos and don’ts of operating their enterprises, particularly in residential areas.
Among those making presentations will be officials from the Town and Country Planning Department, the Ministry of Health and the EPD.
On Thursday, June 21, the Department will host an open day in the Jubilee Gardens, The City, beginning at 9:00 a.m.
Officers will be on hand to provide information on a number of environmental concerns, including marine and noise pollution, asbestos removal; the removal of derelict buildings and vehicles; and the disposal of solid waste and hazardous materials.
Environmental Technical Officer, Philip Pile, said the open day was designed to increase public awareness about the EPD, its functions, and also how members of the public could reduce the impact of their activities on the environment and human health.
Personnel from the Diabetes Association of Barbados will be present to offer free blood pressure and blood sugar checks to patrons during the open day.
The event day is one of a number of activities planned by the Ministry of the Environment and Drainage to celebrate Environment Month under the theme: Living Sustainably…Respecting Our Heritage in Shaping a Green Economy.
The EPD acts as the pollution prevention and environmental monitoring and control agency of Government.?? It was established in 1971.