On March 20, 2018, the Government of Belize approved a proposal to ban single-use plastic bags, Styrofoam products, and plastic food utensils in the country by April 22, 2019. While this is a cause to be celebrated, by tourism based businesses that rely primarily on an clean and pristine environment, many individuals and corporations who are value driven to protect the environment, have supported such a move for a long time.

However as April 22, draws near, we are getting more and more objections to its implementation primarily because many do not see the transition process as a simple one. The change from a culture of convenience to one that is value driven that is concerned with environmental degradation is a long and difficult journey for many and requires a roadmap that leads to a successful transformation within a society.

We are already seeing an increase in biodegradable products in the market, as well as more and more individuals are now carrying their own refillable water bottle as they travel to meetings or at their desk. However as the issue of cost creeps ever so often to the surface, and the difficulty for some to even consider their own change processes to a new and sustainable practice, we must assist in facilitating such a move over a specified period.

With this in mind, the Belize Institute of Management is looking for corporations or small businesses who are already using sustainable best practices especially with the management of their solid waste, and more so preventing the unnecessary accumulation of the single use items in their businesses for us to feature as exemplary corporate citizens or sustainability ambassadors for others to learn from their best practices.

It is our intention to feature these ambassadors on radio and TV for others to learn and assimilate in their organizations. Help us promote your leadership in sustainable practices in solid waste prevention, management, and disposal for a better Belize.

Feel free to contact us at Belize Institute of Management, BIM at 223-3055 or Chairman Raineldo D. Guerrero at 610-5924.