The phased placement of 80 multi-function garage bins (see Tuesday newspaper) is a significant step in making Philipsburg less messy. The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) is putting them in high-traffic areas, starting with 23 along the Boardwalk, while Front- and Back Streets will follow.
Since these are frequented particularly by passengers from ships in the harbour, it makes sense that Port St. Maarten supports a temporary service arrangement to keep priority locations well-maintained during peak seasons. However, the end of such is fast-approaching and continuity will be essential as this responsibility shifts to the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure, VROMI.
What must certainly not happen is that visitors are confronted with overflowing bins that become like dumpsites in some spots. Apart from the negative impact on nature and potentially even public health, it sends an entirely wrong message.
While the initiative is no doubt a good one, more will be needed. For example, especially businesses that sell food and beverages in plastic bags, Styrofoam containers, bottles, cans, cups etcetera should actively encourage shoppers to properly dispose of any waste. After all, they are among those to benefit most directly from a clean and attractive capital.
The approach also needs to be comprehensive. Attentive readers may have noted a slanted, leaning sign on Great Bay Beach in the background of the photo accompanying the relevant story that shows a new bin.
In addition, right next to it one can see a concrete base with bolts sticking out, apparently for a missing lamppost. Behind that is an unsightly pole with thick cable running along its outside.
This is just to illustrate how the entire picture plays a role, not just any individual part of the problem. Getting rid of eyesores, including unauthorised billboards and the like that create an undesirable impression of disorder and sloppy behaviour remains important too.
