Where Waste Goes: Behind the Scenes at Statia’s Waste Plant

St. Eustatius Waste Solutions plays a vital role in keeping the island clean and protecting the environment. While most people only see waste when they take out their bins, a lot of work happens after collection to manage it safely and responsibly.

Households have two bins: one for non-recyclable waste and one for recyclables. Once collected, the waste is brought to the plant, where staff sort and store materials. Larger items such as wood, metal, green waste and construction materials can be brought directly to the plant, either for free or for a small fee. When waste is separated correctly, it is easier and less costly to handle, allowing staff to focus on safe storage and recycling.

Properly separating waste not only makes the process smoother but also shows respect for the people who handle it every day. Waste plant workers play an important role in protecting public health and keeping neighbourhoods clean. When waste is mixed or not sorted correctly, it increases their workload and the risk of exposure to pests, sharp objects or harmful materials. By working together – residents and waste plant staff alike – waste management becomes safer, more efficient and more rewarding for everyone involved.

Unsorted waste at the waste plant

Every bag of waste that is sorted properly helps reduce environmental impact and creates a cleaner, safer island for everyone. When waste is stored or disposed of improperly or dumped illegally, it can attract rats, flies and mosquitoes that spread disease and create unpleasant living conditions. By keeping waste sorted, sealed and disposed of correctly, everyone helps protect public health and prevent pest problems.

Unsorted waste being separated by hand

The Statia Government continues to improve facilities and services to support responsible waste management. Visible progress starts with small steps from the community. Each household that separates waste correctly sets an example that inspires others to do the same. By sorting and bringing waste to the plant, every household helps protect Statia’s health, beauty and the people who care for it.

Continuous investment in advanced waste processing and recycling forms part of the milestones defined in the Nature and Environment Policy Programme (NEPP).

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For questions and more information, please contact the Unit of Licensing, Supervision and Enforcement at +599 318 0051 or St. Eustatius Waste Solutions at +599 318 0616.