It regularly smells like faeces in certain areas of Simpson Bay Lagoon, especially when the wind turns or dies down, and the turds can often literally be seen floating on the water. Some of this no doubt comes from boats and – particularly after it rains – also from overflowing cesspools on land. However, one can’t escape the impression that pump trucks are still dumping their polluting loads directly into shoreline ditches at well-known spots in the area.
This is not only incredibly wrong, but also completely unnecessary. The sewage treatment facility at A.Th. Illidge Road can accommodate these truckers and if their content is not suitable for such due to, for example, the presence of chemicals they must go to the sanitary landfill.
Sadly, persons have been prosecuted and fines issued for similar environmental and health violations in the past, but the illegal practice apparently continues to the detriment of the island and one of its most important natural resources. In addition, the long-term damage this can cause the economically significant marine sector and local hospitality industry in general could be worse than any hurricane.
And it’s not just that. The amount of trash left behind at times just steps from garbage bins by beachgoers during the long Easter weekend was once again staggering.
The point is that one can talk forever about better waste processing and management, recycling, joint sewage plants, etc., but as long as people keep ignoring the rules and their own responsibility to help care for what they call home, the problem won’t really be solved.
While authorities may be busy tackling crime considered a higher priority, this persistent issue that has serious implications for the general interest should not be overlooked. After all, without active enforcement, most laws in practice are not worth the paper they were written on.
