In a groundbreaking collaboration, the Trinidad and Tobago Solid Waste Management Company Limited (SWMCOL) is teaming up with various ministries and regional corporations to launch the Organic Waste Curbside Collection and Valorisation Pilot Project. This innovative initiative, funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), aims to address the significant challenges of organic waste management in Trinidad and Tobago, promoting sustainable practices and environmental stewardship within local communities.
Organic waste accounts for a staggering 32% of total waste disposed in Trinidad, making it a critical component of the waste stream. To combat this issue, SWMCOL’s pilot project will focus on collecting organic waste in selected communities, such as Greenvale, Trestrail, Old Pleasantville, Les Efforts East and West, and Olera Heights. This project builds upon the success of the Municipal Curbside Recycling Programme (MCRP) and targets source segregation at household and school levels.
The introduction of curbside organic waste collection is expected to deliver a range of benefits, including a reduction in landfill volume and greenhouse gas emissions, as well as the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices through the repurposing of organic waste into compost. By diverting organic materials from landfills, SWMCOL is taking significant strides towards creating a greener and more sustainable Trinidad and Tobago.
Residents in Greenvale, Trestrail, Old Pleasantville, Les Efforts East and West, and Olera Heights can now participate in the project by placing compostable materials in clear plastic bags on designated collection days. Accepted items for composting include food scraps, vegetable peels, coffee grounds, newspapers, and paper towels. Residents are urged to avoid including meats, fish, plastics, glass bottles, and hazardous wastes in their compost materials.
By engaging in this initiative, local communities not only contribute to diverting organic waste from landfills but also gain a deeper understanding of the importance of source separation and recycling. SWMCOL aims to cultivate a culture of sustainability and encourage residents to adopt environmentally responsible practices for the benefit of their communities and the environment.
For further information on the Organic Waste Curbside Collection and Valorisation Pilot Project, individuals can contact SWMCOL by phone at 800-SWMC (7962) or via email at info@swmcol.co.tt.
