VI urged to recycle & reduce the use of plastics - 22% of VI waste is plastic, according to Premier Wheatley

ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) is urging the people of the Territory to do their part to protect the environment by reducing the use of plastics and engage in recycling.

As the Territory observed World Environment Day on June 5, 2023, Premier Wheatley said the overuse and improper disposal of plastics is one of the gravest threats to the planet and is calling on everyone to do their part in protecting the environment.

22% of VI waste is plastic

The Premier, according to a press release from Government Information Services (GIS), said twenty-two percent (22%) of waste in the Virgin Islands is plastics and sixty percent (60%) of what currently ends up in the recycling bins is plastic water bottles.

“Everyone must remember to do their part, not only on this day, but every day,” the Premier said.

Dr the Honourable Wheatley added, “As residents of these beautiful Islands, we are privileged to live, in a place where we can still enjoy fresh air, lush green mountains, and pristine clear blue waters, pollution free. It is our duty, however, to ensure that we continue to protect our environment at all costs so that generations after ours can continue to enjoy our beautiful environment.”

The Ministry responsible for Natural Resources is encouraging other ministries and their departments, as well as statutory bodies, the private sector and the entire community to join the movement to reduce plastic use and increase recycling efforts.