The Environmental Protection Agency has informed Halliburton Guyana Inc. that an Environmental Impact Assessment will not be required for the company’s planned transportation of oil and gas chemicals, equipment, and tools across Regions Three, Four, Five, and Six of the country.
The EPA published its decision on its official website on April 30, 2026, concluding that the proposed project will not significantly affect the environment and is therefore exempt from the requirement to conduct a full impact assessment. The regulator clarified, however, that the waiver of the EIA requirement does not constitute project approval, meaning Halliburton must still obtain separate authorisation before operations can commence.
In explaining its decision, the EPA cited several risk mitigation measures built into the project’s design. The agency noted that the risk of chemical spills will be negligible because hazardous materials and tools will be secured to transport trailers using ratchet straps. Chemical packaging will be inspected prior to each journey to confirm that containers are leak-tight. All drivers and banksmen will be required to complete training in hazardous materials handling, transport procedures, and emergency preparedness before they are permitted to transport any hazardous cargo.
On the question of air quality, the EPA stated that impacts would also be negligible. Dry chemicals will be transported in enclosed sacks in accordance with their respective safety data sheets, vehicles will be maintained to manufacturer specifications, and truck engines will be turned off when not in active use to limit emissions.
The EPA has opened a 30-day window during which any person who believes they may be affected by the proposed project can lodge a formal appeal against the agency’s decision to waive the EIA. Appeals should be addressed to the Chairman of the Environmental Assessment Board and can be submitted by email at eabguyana21@gmail.com or through the agency’s website at www.epaguyana.org.
Halliburton Guyana Inc., the local subsidiary of one of the world’s largest oilfield services companies, has been operating in Guyana since 2015. The company currently maintains two facilities, one at the Eccles Industrial Site on the East Bank Demerara and another at G-Port Inc. Wharf on Water Street in Georgetown.
In its project summary, Halliburton described the purpose of the initiative as establishing authorised transportation activities to support the safe and efficient movement of materials essential for operational continuity. The project involves the movement of chemicals in compliant containers including intermediate bulk containers, totes, drums, sacks, and bib bags, as well as tools and equipment between the company’s facilities and operational sites across the country.
The company acknowledged a range of possible risks associated with the project, including chemical spills, environmental contamination, fire, toxic release, air pollution, traffic accidents during transit, exposure to chemicals, property damage, and personal injury or illness. Halliburton assured regulators that all transportation activities will be conducted in compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, using qualified personnel and vehicles that meet established safety standards.
The project is expected to last a minimum of 10 years and is intended to formalise and authorise Halliburton’s transportation operations across all necessary routes within Guyana in support of the local oil and gas industry. The company stated that proper risk management and adherence to environmental, safety, and procedural controls will be central to its operations throughout the duration of the permit.
SOURCE: Kaieteur News, “EPA waives study for oil waste transport,” May 6, 2026
