Caribbean Environment Programme - UNEP

UNEP(DEC)/CAR WG.18/6
Anexo V
Apéndice 2
Página 2
Research and Development
The Wastewater Garden system has been developed by PCRF from a line of research that
began in the 1970’s with NASA scientist Dr. Bill Wolverton who commenced the first studies of
wastewater treatment using plants.
Main conclusions and recommendations
The need of a change of paradigm switching from the conventional approach to the
sustainable approach and from short term vision to that of a long term vision;
Application and vigilance relevant to wastewater disposal and the performance of
regular and continuous environmental audits and monitoring of the wastewater;
The stipulation of a requirement to build and implement proper wastewater treatment
systems and solid waste management, as a first step, prior the beginning of any habitat,
dwelling and constructions where human activities will take place;
The success in the models built in the State of Quintana Roo Mexico, as a solution of the
problem of wastewater management, to prevent irreversible coral reef damage and
pollution of water tables above and below the surface.
Preamble
CASE STUDY ON THE RODNEY BAY SEWERAGE SCHEME IN ST LUCIA
Errol Frederick
The town of Gros Islet and the neighbouring community of Rodney Bay are located on
the north-western coast of the island of St. Lucia and approximately eight miles north of the
capital Castries. This northern section of the island has been experiencing significant
developmental growth in residential, commercial and tourist related activities since the mid
1970s when the Rodney Bay Marina, a man-made lagoon and other development infrastructure
were constructed to open up lands in the area. The marina is now the final destination for yachts
taking part in the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) and was host to over 200 yachts last
December. Besides its main attraction the marina serves as a primary settling basin for silt and
organic wastes brought down from the adjacent watershed area where continuous construction of
residential and commercial buildings are taking place. The contents of the marina finally drain to
the coastal waters of Rodney Bay through a narrow and only exit to the coast.