- Water quality assessment to inform wastewater system design and keep urban areas safer and cleaner
- Contract signed by the project for a new sewerage network and wastewater treatment plan
- Planned 9,000 new sewage connections will bring access to safe sanitation for about 6,300 households
Workshop Marks a Milestone
From crystal-clear waters to vibrant coral reefs, Sint Maarten’s natural beauty is more than scenery—it’s the heartbeat of the island’s economy. But pollution, aging sanitation infrastructure, and environmental degradation are stressing island life. In response, local leaders are stepping up to safeguard public health, marine life, and the tourism-driven economy.
A key milestone came on May 15–16, 2025, with the National Workshop on Citywide Inclusive Sanitation and Marine Ecosystem Protection. Organized by VROMI and NRPB in partnership with the World Bank, the workshop marked a significant step forward under the Wastewater Management Project. The project aims to provide about 9,000 new sewage connections (reaching 6,300 households) and improve the sustainability and resilience of wastewater management.
“Picture a child diving off the jetty at Great Bay in 2030, clear goggles, clearer water. That future is the dividend of the choices we make in this very room.”
— Honorable Patrice Gumbs, Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment, and Infrastructure (VROMI)
A Roadmap for Change
Bringing together national stakeholders, regional partners, and global experts, the two-day workshop focused on five priority areas:
- Current Challenges: A diagnostic review identified key gaps in Sint Maarten’s sanitation services and marine management.
- Global Lessons: Case studies from other coastal and island settings provided lessons learned and adaptable practices.
- Innovative Tools: Participants examined data-driven approaches like marine pollution modeling, citizen-led water quality monitoring, and sanitation impact mapping.
- Policy and Financing: Governance frameworks and financial strategies were explored to support more sustainable infrastructure.
- Localized Roadmap: Work began on a strategic action plan tailored to the island’s needs.
Participants also discussed the technical aspects of wastewater treatment, including “connecting the unconnected” and improving onsite sanitation and septage management.
Progress Through Collaboration
The workshop used the Citywide Inclusive Sanitation approach developed by the World Bank to address urban sanitation challenges, particularly in the context of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The approach aims to ensure all residents benefit from safe, adequate, and sustainable sanitation services. The workshop supported Sint Maarten’s progress toward SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
Insights and momentum from the workshop will inform future planning, investment decisions, and policy development. It will be used as a launchpad for moving beyond discussion into coordinated action.