ORANJESTAD — Around 400,000 kilograms of medical waste — roughly 400 tons — is currently stockpiled in Aruba as the island works to restore safe processing capacity, interim AWSS director Francis Ras has disclosed.
Speaking during a presentation to 24ora.com, Ras said approximately 55 containers are part of the backlog, describing it as a problem that has persisted for several years while the organizations involved work to normalize operations and expand processing capacity.
Investments underway
To improve safety and efficiency, significant investments have been made in facilities and equipment. A mobile processing unit has been purchased to add flexibility, allowing certain materials to be processed while other parts of the system are prepared or undergo maintenance.
The organization has upgraded its building, receiving area and treatment facilities, and a 24-person team handles various aspects of operations and maintenance. Reliable power is critical: the facility is equipped with an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system and a backup generator to ensure continuity during outages. A belt press is currently undergoing repairs, and additional capacity is under consideration.
Strategic plan through 2030
Looking ahead, AWSS is developing a strategic plan running through 2030. Discussions are taking place with Santa Rosa and the Ministry of Agriculture about potential cooperation in water management, transportation and agriculture, and a group is examining how existing infrastructure could support future agricultural development.
Installing the new system and bringing it fully into operation could take between eight and ten months, involving several phases and coordination with multiple stakeholders to ensure facilities and containers are handled safely.
Stabilization within months
The immediate goal is to stabilize operations. According to Ras, the team aims to reach an operational activation level within approximately two to three months, while work at the site is expected to continue at least through the end of October, covering preparation, repairs and operational reorganization.
With more than 400 tons still awaiting processing, the main challenges ahead are increasing capacity, ensuring safe handling and building a sustainable system for managing medical waste in Aruba.
Source: 24ora English
