In order to maximize the benefits of the non-physical component, the elements of this component are being implemented in a structured manner.

The first line of approach is through the implementation of a waste minimization programme supported by a strong education programme While this is underway an improved collection service will be established backed by appropriate regulatory and economic instruments to ensure the best possible results from the program. The necessary institutional strengthening will accompany these changes. Waste minimization

The overall waste minimization programme is based on the principal of the 3 R's:

(i) Waste Reduction

(ii) Reuse of waste

(iii)Recycling and is intended to be supported by a dynamic education programme and to be conducted to reflect the hierarchy listed above in order to achieve the best possible results.

This hierarchy assumes that once an individual makes every effort to reduce the amount of solid waste produced, that individual should then seek to reuse as much of the waste that is produced as is possible. The remaining waste should then either be composted, set out in a prescribed manner for recycling, or for final disposal

Waste Minimization Practices

It is estimated that the private sector diverts 13,600 tons of recyclable, or less than 10% of the total waste stream. Of the total recycled waste, about 11,340 tons are paper (including newspaper), 910 tons are glass, 530 tons are non-ferrous metals, 500 tons are ferrous metals, 220 tons are polyethylene terephtalater (PET), and a 100 tons are lead acid batteries. Depending on the market for the specific products, most of the recyclables are being shipped overseas.

A national program for reducing waste at the source is being spearheaded and coordinated by Government, as part of the national waste minimization strategy which has an overall waste minimization goal of 40 % by the year 2007. It is estimated that the reduction of waste at the source in Barbados will reduce the amount of solid waste being generated by about 3,700 tons per year, or about 3% of the total waste flow.

Solid Waste Management Educational

Barbados' main tourist attractions are its beaches and natural beauty, and as such, the island depends on a clean environment, including proper waste disposal, to maintain adequate public health standards and its attractiveness to tourists. Indeed, tourist complaints about litter and scattered garbage are common. Residents and visitors together generate more than 150,000 tonnes of solid waste each year. If not efficiently managed environmental and aesthetic degradation can result and persons then face the health risks associated with improper solid waste management. Major contributors to problems associated with solid waste management in Barbados include: (i) current disposal practices of waste; (ii) inefficient collection services and containment practices; and (iii) low waste minimization practices in the country.

Legislation

Currently policy is been developed to strengthen existing legislation.

Regulatory Framework

The Health Service Act defines the regulatory framework for solid waste management in Barbados and establishes its overall responsibility in the Ministry of Health.

The Health Services Act comprises a large set of regulation. The collection and disposal of Refuse Regulations regulates landfill siting, littering and dumping, waste containment, and waste collection and transportation. Penalties are set for contravention of the Act. In addition, the Nuisance Regulation, the Rodent control Regulation and the Disposal of Offensive Matter Regulation provide control over littering and dumping. Some of these regulations will need to be updated to follow the new environmental standards.

Other pieces of legislation relevant to solid waste management include the Underground Water Control Act which regulates disposal of sewerage or waste into the ground via water wells; and the Returnable Containers Act which creates a system for recycling.

<< Previous Section | Next Section >>