The Conaree Landfill is Nearing its Expiration Date

A Fire at the Solid Waste Management Corporation (SWMC) Landfill at Conaree

The Conaree Landfill is nearing its expiration date.

Minister of Sustainable Development and Environment Updates the Nation

Minister of Sustainable Development and Environment, the Honourable Dr. Joyelle Clarke, updated the nation on a recent fire at the Solid Waste Management Corporation (SWMC) Landfill at Conaree, noting that it spontaneously combusted due to the natural heat and gases generated from decomposing materials.

The Conaree Landfill is nearing its expiration date.

While addressing the Federal Parliament on Thursday, February 27, 2025, Minister Clarke indicated that the fire was reported at approximately 1 a.m. on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. Plant operators supported by members of the St. Kitts and Nevis Fire and Rescue Services have contained the fire and are closely monitoring ongoing developments.

“Unfortunately, it will have to burn naturally and we expect that in a few days, or maybe even less, the situation will be under control,” Honourable Clarke stated. “We do sincerely apologize to residents in St. Peter’s, Cayon, in some areas, Keys, and Conaree, who have been experiencing this unfortunate situation.”

Dr. Clarke reiterated that the Conaree Landfill is rapidly approaching its “expiration date” and stated that the government is continuing to explore alternative waste management and recycling solutions.

“With the support of the CARICOM-Canada expert deployment exercise, we recently received the final draft of our Solid Waste Management Plan Report. It’s almost 100 pages of what we can do – the options that are available to us for transitioning away from the landfill,” Honourable Clarke added.

“The document will guide the government’s next steps as it works to transform St. Kitts and Nevis into a sustainable island state,” Dr. Clarke concluded.

Conclusion

The Conaree Landfill is a pressing concern for the government and residents of St. Kitts and Nevis. The recent fire at the landfill is a reminder of the urgent need for a sustainable waste management solution. The government is working to transition away from the landfill and towards a more sustainable future.

FAQs

* What is the current status of the Conaree Landfill?
The Conaree Landfill is nearing its expiration date and has recently experienced a fire.
* What is the cause of the fire?
The fire was caused by the natural heat and gases generated from decomposing materials.
* What is being done to contain the fire?
Plant operators supported by members of the St. Kitts and Nevis Fire and Rescue Services have contained the fire and are closely monitoring ongoing developments.
* What is the government’s plan for transitioning away from the landfill?
The government is exploring alternative waste management and recycling solutions, with the support of the CARICOM-Canada expert deployment exercise. A Solid Waste Management Plan Report has been produced, which will guide the government’s next steps.