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Waste management is both a threat and an opportunity. Poor waste management can degrade our environment and erode our economy. Just as importantly, it can reduce the communities’ desire to be involved in creating a better Kiribati for our next generation. As we have seen from our recycling program, good waste management can also generate employment and economic activity while cleaning up the islands. Waste is truly a sustainable development issue involving environment, economy and social issues.

The International Waters Programme is implementing the Strategic Action Plan for the countries of the South Pacific. Activities in Kiribati under the IWP are focused on waste management issues and the effects that waste disposal has on water supply and coastal waters. Pilot projects, particularly involving the Bikenibeu West Community, are proposed to address the fundamental causes of terrestrial derived wastes at community level. At a national level it is proposed to review the structure, functions and operations of the waste management authorities and agencies on Tarawa. This review will include an assessment of institutional capacities, synergies and inter-linkages with the objective of delivering an efficient and sustainable waste management service. Revenue generation options to promote the financial sustainability of the services on Tarawa shall be a feature of the proposed review.