Cheveners are exploring solutions to address the problematic in one of the most polluted rivers in the world. Alumni gathered in workshops and paid a field visit as to develop a paper with recommendations that will be discussed with authorities of Guatemala and Honduras.
The Motagua River, flowing through Guatemala and into the Gulf of Honduras, is one of the most polluted rivers in Central America. This vital waterway tragically contributes approximately 18 million kilograms of waste to the ocean each year. This alarming situation underscores the urgent need for effective solutions to combat the environmental degradation caused by plastic pollution.
For this purpose, Chevening alumni convened a round table, and a policy innovation workshop focused on the political and regional practices within the Central American Integration System (SICA). The first Policy Roundtable hosted separately in Honduras and Guatemala addressed the interventions of restoring the Motagua River and preventing further contamination. A holistic approach to the issue considered social, economic, and environmental perspectives to promote a comprehensive regional proposal.
Additionally, Cheveners and British Embassy staff paid a site visit to the Motagua River, allowing them to witness the scale of the issue firsthand. Consultation with experts and local leaders in the field allowed further exploration of the issue and provide insights for a policy brief with recommendations done by the Chevening alumni from Honduras and Guatemala. This brief will be shared with the relevant decision-makers and broader audience.
All Chevening Scholars are automatically enrolled into the global Chevening Alumni community at the end of their award. They become part of a community of high-valued professionals who are determined to bring a positive change to their home countries, in line with UK values and working with like-minded partners.
To know more about Chevening, please visit www.chevening.org.