Government announces national clean-up campaign as pollution concerns persist

The Cabinet has announced a national clean-up campaign to be carried out across the country within the next two weeks, as the government moves to address longstanding environmental concerns while preparing the island for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in November.

Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said the coordinated, multi-agency effort would include the removal of litter and derelict items, clearing of bushes and overgrown vegetation, cleaning of drains and waterways, and enhancement of public spaces and road verges.

Cabinet emphasised that the initiative goes beyond beautification. “Unclean surroundings can contribute to flooding, infestations, and other health hazards,” Merchant said, describing the campaign as addressing public health, environmental protection, tourism preservation, and community safety simultaneously.

The announcement follows a February environmental incident near the Cooks Landfill, where a combination of heavy rainfall, full-capacity sewage ponds, and a king tide event caused landfill leachate to overflow into the nearby mangrove and into Five Islands Harbour.

The National Solid Waste Management Authority, the National Office of Disaster Services, and the Central Board of Health conducted surveillance of the area following the incident.

A ban on fishing and use of food products from the affected area remains in place, and Merchant indicated that results from environmental testing would be released by the Ministry.

Asked whether the national clean-up would also address ongoing pollution concerns at the Antigua Distillery, Merchant acknowledged that discussions between the government and the proprietors were ongoing but offered no timeline for resolution.

“It is an ongoing situation there between the government and the proprietors,” he said.

The campaign builds on recent efforts by the National Solid Waste Management Authority, which has already intensified activities across several communities, including bulk waste removal, clearing of overgrown areas, and drain cleaning.

Community-based clean-up initiatives in recent weeks have also demonstrated the potential for citizen participation in maintaining a clean environment, according to Cabinet.

Citizens, businesses, and community organisations are being encouraged to participate by properly disposing of waste and maintaining their immediate surroundings ahead of and during the scheduled activities.

Further details on the schedule and areas of focus are expected in the coming days.