The urgent issues surrounding safety and the proper storage of waste at Selibon Lagun have been addressed. The containers with asbestos waste have been repaired. Solutions for new biomedical waste have also been found, and slaughter waste is now processed according to the correct regulations. The fencing around the waste center is complete, and security has been enhanced.
In mid-November, the acting National Representative took over from the Executive Council due to the concerning, complex, and urgent situation at Selibon Lagun. Quick action was taken to resolve the key practical problems at the waste center.
Asbestos Waste
The 19 damaged containers with asbestos waste have been repaired as planned. They are secured on a fenced area. Newly submitted asbestos waste is temporarily stored in new containers until a permanent solution for processing asbestos is found. The necessary storage capacity for asbestos waste is being determined in close collaboration with the Public Body Bonaire (OLB) due to OLBs long-term waste management responsibility.
Slaughter Waste
Since January 1, 2025, new work instructions for the proper processing of slaughter waste are in effect. Since the incinerator is not operational, slaughter waste may be buried under strict regulations regarding packaging, depth, covering, and registration of the location on site.
Biomedical Waste
Additionally, two new cooling containers are being ordered to store biomedical waste until further processing. These containers will be placed next to the (inactive) incinerator on an existing concrete foundation and enclosed with a fence. The electrical installation will be modified to supply power to the two cooling containers. Depending on the delivery time of the containers and the inspection timeline of the installation (by WEB), the containers are expected to be in use by the end of February or early March.
The options for disposal and processing of the nine existing containers with uncooled biomedical waste are currently being investigated, with transportation and processing to the Netherlands or Aruba being the most viable options.
Safety
Security at and around Selibon Lagun has been enhanced and will continue 24/7. In addition to camera surveillance and patrols, security personnel also check the entrance. The entire waste center (including the environmental street, sorting stations, cardboard storage, incineration facilities, waste oil station, and collection of small chemical waste) is properly fenced. There are still four unofficial access roads around the landfill, where access gates will be installed.
Permit
The acting National Representative has engaged a renowned Dutch engineering firm to assist with the process and assessment of Selibons 2022 permit application.