The Ministry of Health and Social Development has announced the commissioning of a new bulldozer at the Pockwood Pond Waste Management Facility.

Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley visited the facility last week to witness a demonstration of the new heavy-duty bulldozer, calling it “a major cost-saving and operational milestone for the department.”

“It’s brand new and ready for operation,” Minister Wheatley said. “This means that much of the work we previously outsourced can now be handled in-house, operated, maintained, and managed by our own team.”

The minister commended Acting Director Mr. Benjamin and the Waste Management Department for their outstanding performance adding that there has not been a single fire in 2024 or 2025, and that is a remarkable achievement. 

Honourable Wheatley confirmed that steps are being taken to restore incineration capacity at the Pockwood Pond site. He said earlier this year, an international specialist inspected the current incinerator and provided recommendations to either repair the existing 100-ton unit or replace it with two new 50-ton systems. A final decision is expected within weeks.

Minister Wheatley also commended residents who have embraced recycling and other eco-friendly practices.  “Those who separate their garbage, compost, and reuse materials are leading by example. The more we work together, the more we keep a cleaner, greener Virgin Islands,” he said.

Meanwhile Acting Director of Waste Management, Mr. Levi Benjamin emphasised that the new bulldozer will allow the department to better manage operations and reduce reliance on private contractors.

Mr. Benjamin stated, “Having our own equipment is a game changer. It saves on the costs and delays that come with outsourcing. Our team has already been trained and is ready to operate the machine efficiently, starting this week.”

Mr. Benjamin also highlighted ongoing waste-reduction initiatives, including partnerships with the private sector for glass and plastic recycling, as well as new programs promoting waste diversion and reuse. “We are encouraging the public to reduce, reuse, and recycle,” he said. “Every effort counts toward keeping our community cleaner and greener.”

The Department of Waste Management remains committed to enhancing the natural beauty of the Territory leveraging state-of-the-art waste management technology ensuring timely collection disposal and where feasible, recycling of waste. Together, we can maintain a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable Virgin Islands.