“We are working with the IDB on a loan to rehabilitate Ornamibo,” Tsang said on Wednesday ahead of the meeting of the Raad van Ministers (RvM, Council of Ministers).
According to the minister, current waste processing does not meet the requirements set for a responsible system. He stressed that Suriname must eventually switch to waste separation and better processing of collected waste.
Tsang indicated that he has been in consultation with the IDB for about a year on the rehabilitation of Ornamibo. The project is not limited to improving the existing landfill. The construction of a new, certified waste-processing facility is also part of the plans.
The minister stressed that time is running out. “I only have a window of two years for this,” he said, referring to the limited period within which the necessary facilities must be realised.
Oil and gas industry places higher demands on waste processing
According to Tsang, the development of the oil and gas industry makes it necessary for Suriname to have a certified waste-processing facility. The expected economic growth will, according to him, be accompanied by an increase in the amount of waste. That waste will have to be processed in a responsible and certified manner.
According to the minister, Suriname currently does not have a landfill that meets these requirements. He therefore considers it necessary for existing infrastructure to be improved and new facilities to be put in place.
Tsang stressed that the plans are already being prepared and expressed hope that the rehabilitation of Ornamibo and the development of a new waste-processing facility can be realised as soon as possible.
