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Basseterre, St. Kitts, June 06, 2026
– St. Kitts and Nevis took another significant step toward environmental sustainability on Friday, June 05, as the Department of Environment, in partnership with the Taiwan Technical Mission and the Antioch Baptist Church, officially launched a new recycling bin under the nationwide Recycling Project.
The launch was commemorated during a brief ceremony held at Lime Kiln Commercial Development, where the new recycling bin has been installed. The event coincided with the global observance of World Environment Day, underscoring the Federation’s commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible waste management.
Speaking at the ceremony, Director of the Department of Environment, Derionne Edmeade, applauded the leadership and congregation of the Antioch Baptist Church for taking the initiative to become involved in the national programme. Their participation marks a historic milestone, as the church becomes the first faith-based organization to support the Recycling Project and host the first official community recycling bin.
“It gives me great pleasure to really thank the leadership of the Antioch Baptist Church for taking this bold step, this leadership role so that other churches and different organisations may follow as they continue to lead this part of the church community,” Mr. Edmeade stated.
Resident Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), His Excellency Edward Tao, highlighted Taiwan’s longstanding collaboration with the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis on the Recycling Project, noting that the partnership has spanned approximately five years. He welcomed the programme’s expansion into another community and commended all stakeholders involved in its continued success, with special recognition given to Joyce Chang, the Taiwan Technical Mission’s lead representative on the initiative.
As part of the ceremony, Ambassador Tao presented reusable shopping bags made from recycled materials collected within the Federation to Ian Richards, who represented the Antioch Baptist Church.
Responding on behalf of Lead Pastor Lincoln D. Connor, the church board, and the wider congregation, Mr. Richards shared that discussions about joining the Recycling Project began several weeks ago. He noted the significance of the launch taking place on World Environment Day and emphasized the church’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
“The Antioch Baptist Church is no stranger to environmental issues,” the church leader stated. “Of course, our young people [designed] and implemented a water conservation project a few years ago, and the young men of the Turn Around Agenda participate in coastal protection, so we are familiar with the importance of protecting the environment.”
The recycling bin has been strategically positioned outside the church’s perimeter fence to ensure round-the-clock public access. Residents are encouraged to compress and bag recyclable materials such as plastic bottles, aluminium cans, soft metals, and cardboard before depositing them into the bin. Organic waste, including food scraps and household garbage, is strictly prohibited.
The Department of Environment also announced plans to expand the initiative with the installation of additional recycling bins near Fraites Bakery in Molineaux, at the Dr. Denzil L. Douglas Secondary School in Saddlers, and in Sandy Point.
The continued expansion of the Recycling Project reflects the Government’s broader efforts to strengthen environmental awareness, encourage sustainable waste management practices, and foster greater community participation in protecting the nation’s natural resources.
Source: SKNIS
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