the Colibri recycling center, a step towards sustainable waste management in western Guyana
The Colibri recycling center in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni opened its doors on December 2 on the Colibri eco-pole, route de Paul Isnard. The first of its kind in Western Guyana, it offers residents an essential solution for sorting, recycling and recovering waste.
Since December 2, residents of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni can now deposit their waste in the first intercommunal recycling center in western Guyana. Located on the Colibri eco-pole, route de Paul Isnard, this infrastructure was eagerly awaited in the region to meet the growing waste management needs.
“The recycling center allows individuals to deposit bulky, dangerous waste or waste not usually collected with household waste free of charge,” explains Cyrille Van Oost, director of the environment and waste management department at CCOG. It also makes it possible to encourage recycling and reuse thanks to a reuse zone, a concept that is not yet widespread but is essential for reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.
Waste accepted covers a wide variety: green waste, scrap metal, used furniture, electrical and electronic waste (W3E), batteries, textiles, and even sporting and leisure items. More than ten agreements have been signed with approved eco-organizations to ensure that this waste is recovered or eliminated in specialized channels.
To raise awareness among the population, a vast communication campaign was launched in Guyana the 1st, supplemented by local actions, including site visits for schools.
We hope that this recycling center will become an educational tool for young people and a practical solution for all residents.
ajoute Cyrille Van Oost.
The opening of this recycling center is part of a larger project. CCOG plans to deploy several other similar infrastructures in Apatou and Maripasoula by early 2025, marking an increase in regional efforts for better waste management.
Finally, Bhoris Rattier, center head of the Colibri eco-park, notes that the first reactions from residents are positive:
Since the opening, several individuals have dropped off bulky items, toys and used oils. Our agents are present to guide users and ensure efficient sorting.
