The discovery of oil in Guyana presents an opportunity of economic boom for the country. However, for its potential to be translated into long-term sustainable growth, Guyana must choose to use these resources to develop a Green Economy - and they must choose to do so now to avoid following the same path of previous climate offenders. Given the threats of climate change, can the oil industry be justified by the development of a resource efficient economy that benefits the people of Guyana? How can we ensure the preservation of Guyana's biodiversity remains a top priority? What regulations must be complied with for the extraction of natural resources to contribute to green economies? And, how do we avoid the sense of ‘kicking away the ladder’ when it comes to pressuring Global South countries to adopt ‘good’ policies toward their economic development?