🌿 Alana’s Fight for a Plastic-Free Guyana
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In the bustling streets of Georgetown, Guyana, where plastic bags and bottles often litter the sidewalks, one woman dared to imagine a different future. Alana Bunbury-Walton dreamed of a country where sustainability wasn’t just a buzzword, but a way of life.
Her vision took shape in JARS Zero Waste Store, Guyana’s first zero-waste shop. “I wanted to create a space where people could shop without guilt,” Alana recalls. “A place where every purchase was a step toward protecting our environment.”
💪 From Struggles to Strength
Starting out was far from easy. Alana faced skepticism from those who couldn’t imagine Guyana embracing reusable jars and eco-friendly alternatives. “People would ask me, ‘Why bother? Plastic is cheap and everywhere,’” she says.
But Alana’s determination was stronger than the doubts. With support from her father and the Road to Growth programme by the Cherie Blair Foundation, she learned the skills to transform her passion into a thriving business. “That programme gave me the confidence to forecast sales, refine my products, and believe in myself as a businesswoman,” she explains.
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🌍 A Movement Beyond a Store
JARS is more than a shop—it’s a movement. Customers are encouraged to bring their own containers, reducing single-use plastics. Each interaction becomes a lesson in sustainability. “When a child walks in with a reusable bag, I know we’re changing mindsets,” Alana smiles.
Her project also empowers women. “Women entrepreneurs reinvest more into their communities,” she says. “By leading this change, we’re not just building businesses—we’re building futures.”
💖 A Legacy of Hope
Alana’s story is about more than recycling. It’s about courage, vision, and the belief that one person can spark national change. “I want Guyana to be known not just for its beauty, but for its commitment to protecting that beauty,” she says with conviction.
Her journey reminds us that sustainability is deeply human—it’s about love for family, community, and the generations yet to come.
✨ Takeaway: Alana’s recycling project is proof that when passion meets purpose, even the smallest store can ignite a movement. Her story touches hearts because it shows us that protecting the planet begins with protecting each other.