Trash Problem in Caribbean Islands

The Caribbean islands, renowned for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, are facing a growing waste management crisis. This problem is largely attributed to the booming tourism industry, particularly the influx of cruise ships and their passengers.

Many islands in the region are struggling to cope with the increasing amount of waste generated by both tourists and local populations. Landfills, which are areas designated for disposing of waste, are often overcapacity and poorly managed. For instance, Antigua's landfill has been overcapacity for more than a decade and has received over 1,200 tonnes of rubbish from cruise ships this year alone.

The situation is similar across other Caribbean islands. In the Cayman Islands, the landfill continues to grow despite efforts to promote recycling and waste reduction. Jamaica, another popular tourist destination, still relies on basic disposal sites for the majority of its waste.

While some cruise lines are implementing recycling programs and waste reduction initiatives, the sheer volume of waste being generated is overwhelming the islands' inadequate waste management systems. This crisis not only poses environmental risks but also threatens the very tourism industry that these islands depend on economically.