Moonilal: E-waste law coming

Radhica Sookraj
Published: 29 Jun 2010

Housing and Environment Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal says the Government is planning to bring new legislation to deal with disposal of hazardous waste, including electronic waste.

Moonilal spoke at Cross Crossing Interchange, San Fernando, where more than 80 volunteers from Bamboo Circle Committee #2 conducted a beautification drive. Looking at the transformation of the Interchange, which was spruced up with buttercups, chrysanthemums, palms and other ornamental plants, Moonilal said he planned to set up a special ministerial unit to ensure that C&B 2010 continued for the new few years.

“In an effort to ensure that this is not a one-day event—because the tendency is that events like these tend to be for one day—we are going to put measures in place to ensure there is continuity,” Moonilal said. He explained that he had asked personnel of the Ministry to consider establishing the special unit to bring together agencies that worked in the C&B project, such as the Environmental Management Authority, CEPEP, Chaguaramas Development Corporation and Housing Development Corporation. Moonilal said: “All agencies will be asked to nominate one or two people to that unit, and they will work hand-in-hand with the voluntary sector, social clubs and NGOs.” Regarding legislative changes, the Minister said: “We intend to implement the existing legislation as it relates to littering and strengthen legislation to deal with hazardous waste and e-waste”. E-waste is a term used to describe the disposal of electronic items like computers and printers. Moonilal further said: “We also plan to look at the air pollution rules and those that govern air quality.” Source: http://guardian.co.tt/news/general/2010/06/29/moonilal-e-waste-law-coming