Background

Since 1993, waste reduction and recycling were identified as integral components of the Comprehensive Integrated Solid Waste Management Programme for Barbados. The source reduction programme recommended by consultants in 1995 estimates that there is the potential to reduce the amount of waste being generated in Barbados by 3% per year. Nevertheless, to date waste reduction efforts in Barbados have had only a small impact on the island's solid waste stream.

Generally, recycling is done for two major reasons: as a means of saving virgin resources and as a solid waste management option. However, for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Barbados, recycling is considered to be even more important. For SIDS the disposal of waste is a serious constraint to sustainable development. The limited land area and resources for safe disposal, growing population and increasing imports of hazardous substances combine to make pollution prevention and the management of waste critical issues for SIDS. Given that long-term disposal options are limited and will constrain sustainable development, small island developing states will need to look for ways of minimizing waste and / or converting wastes into a resource (e.g. soil conditioner for agriculture). This will include actions ranging from limiting imports of non-biodegradable and hazardous substances to changing community attitudes to the disposal.

This brochure provides ways by which each Barbadian can contribute to the overall national effort of addressing the growing challenge of reducing the volume of waste that we produce. Individual consumers can help to alleviate this problem by making environmentally conscious decisions about everyday activities such as shopping and day-to-day household chores.

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