Kolonia Town Recycling Center Opening

Kolonia Recycling Center renovated through Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Project ($US54,234) was handed over to Kolonia Town Government on June 15, 2012, and the opening ceremony was held at the Kolonia Recycling Center. This ceremony was also to declare the kick-off for the Pohnpei State Recycling Deposit System. Not only Kolonia Town will benefit from this system but Pohnpei state as well, as it encourages all individuals to collect empty soda cans, bring them to the recycling center and earn 5 cents per can.

This is a great opportunity for Pohnpei State to tackle the mounting problems of pollution by strengthening recycling on the island, as we look around, we can spot numerous cans and plastic near the roads and amongst our mangrove trees. According to JICA research, 14 tons of waste is gathered at the dump site every day and 55% comes from Kolonia Town alone. To protect the precious nature and human security, we need to promote recycling throughout the country.

Through the efforts of Pohnpei State agencies such as Pohnpei Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Transportation and Infrastructure, and Kolonia Town Government alongside JICA experts and volunteers- the Pohnpei State Recycling Deposit System will be launched as a state program.

In Ambassador Eiichi Suzuki’s remarks, he stated “if this could be a chance for us to think of the environment and future of this country, I call this project a great success”. Remarks were also given by Lt. Governor Marcelo Peterson and Governor John Ehsa officially declared the deposit system and celebrated the renewal opening of the center. This was immediately followed by the ribbon-cutting ceremony by Ambassador Suzuki, Governor Ehsa, and Mayor of Kolonia Town Mr. Casiano Shoniber and concluded with an impressive demonstration of the recycling machinery for cans in the Center. Government officials and member of the Diplomatic Corps were also present to witness the kick-off of this great project.