After more than six years of technical cooperation, the closing event of the bilateral project “Strengthening Quality Infrastructure for Environmental and Climate Protection” between the German national metrology institute (PTB) and the Directorate of the National Quality System in Guatemala (SNC) was held in Guatemala City on 27 November 2024. This project has been of vital importance in the efforts to strengthen institutional capacities in quality infrastructure with a particular focus on the implementation of policies aimed at the sustainable use of natural resources and adaptation to climate change.
During the event, a forum called “Impacts and prospects for sustainability of the results achieved with PTB-Guatemala cooperation” took place, as well as visits to the laboratories of the National Metrology Center (CENAME). In addition to the SNC directorates, public and private institutions also participated, including the Ministries of Economy (MINECO), Environment and Natural Resources (MARN) and Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA).
One of the objectives achieved during the implementation of the project was to provide support for the testing laboratories of the National Metrology Center through diagnostic evaluations, advisory services, national and international training and the acquisition of equipment. This equipment is fundamental for guaranteeing reliable measurements, improving the quality of services and obtaining accreditations. In addition, it was possible for the laboratories to offer new services such as the calibration of thermohygrometers for humidity measurement and to optimize measurements related to the environment and climate.
A further key achievement was undoubtedly reaching out to different regions of the country, strengthening interinstitutional and interdepartmental ties. As part of this initiative, and in coordination with the Directorate of the National Quality System (DSNC), workshops were held on environmental technical regulations and water sampling to measure water quality in the department of Quetzaltenango, strengthening technical knowledge and guaranteeing the quality and safety of water for human consumption and domestic use.
The departments of Sololá, Chimaltenango and Sacatepéquez also participated in training sessions on relevant topics such as solid waste management, soil use, contamination, air quality monitoring and measurements, with a particular emphasis on environmental awareness, as well as technical and regulatory aspects.
Thus, in order to show the impact of these and other objectives achieved during the implementation of the project, we invite you to watch a video in which members of the institutions and communities involved share their experiences:
Institutional video © PTB
We are proud of the results that were achieved and of the cooperation between PTB and Guatemalan institutions. This partnership has once again made a key contribution to sustainable development and to climate and environmental protection, strengthening Guatemala’s commitment to quality.
Cover image © PTB
