The V.I. Waste Management Authority is currently installing six solar recycling and compaction units, known as the “BigBelly,” throughout the territory. It is an intelligent waste and recycling collection system that compacts trash on one side and accepts aluminum cans for recycling on the other side. Use of these units will reduce the frequency of collection while increasing recycling opportunities and reducing littering. The units are operated by solar power and can be monitored remotely, advising when the unit is ready to be emptied.
On St. Croix, one unit will be placed on the Christiansted Boardwalk and another at the Verne Richards Memorial Park adjacent to the Ann Abramson Pier in Frederiksted. On St. Thomas, three units will be placed in the downtown Charlotte Amalie area: one will be placed adjacent to the Alvaro de Lugo Post Office on the eastern side facing the Emancipation Garden, the second will be placed further down to the south on that sidewalk on the corner adjacent to the Arts & Crafts Coop west of the Vendor’s Plaza on Veteran’s Drive, and the third will be placed in the vicinity of Palm Passage on the Veteran’s Drive side. The St. John unit will be placed on the Cruz Bay Dock. These units will be put in place during the week of Feb. 21 for public use and have met with the approval of the Historic Preservation Commissions in both districts.
VIWMA welcomes any civic or community organizations that would like to partner with it on the sponsorship and placement of additional units as it strives to encourage recycling and to educate the public on proper waste disposal practices.
For more information, contact the Office of Communications Management at 690-4218 or 712-4951.
