Wastewater Solutions: Cabinet Weighs Japanese Firm’s Small-Scale Sewage Treatment Plan

Wastewater Solutions: Cabinet Weighs Japanese Firm’s Small-Scale Sewage Treatment Plan
Government explores modular sanitation systems to address infrastructure gaps

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda is considering a proposal from Japanese company WOTA to introduce small-scale, modular wastewater treatment systems aimed at improving urban sanitation and addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges.

At Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing, Ambassador Lionel Max Hurst, Chief of Staff in the Office of the Prime Minister, confirmed that the government had reviewed WOTA’s proposal, which offers compact and decentralised treatment technology suitable for use in schools, housing complexes, and other community spaces.

“These systems could be a cost-effective way to deal with wastewater in areas not yet connected to central sewer lines,” Hurst said.

The WOTA technology is designed to recycle and purify wastewater on-site, significantly reducing the environmental impact while requiring less space and capital investment than traditional sewage infrastructure. The company has successfully piloted the technology in parts of Japan and other countries facing similar development constraints.

Antigua and Barbuda has long struggled with ageing and incomplete sewer systems, particularly in high-density urban areas where sanitation issues pose both public health and environmental risks. The modular nature of WOTA’s systems may offer a scalable solution for such communities, especially where extending traditional sewer lines is not feasible.

The government is currently weighing the financial implications, as any new system would need to be cost-effective, reliable, and adaptable to local conditions. Hurst noted that budget limitations remain a significant factor, but stressed that improving sanitation infrastructure is a priority.

No final decision has been made, but Cabinet discussions are expected to continue in the coming weeks. If approved, the project could begin with a pilot installation in a government facility or public housing area.

Officials say the proposal aligns with broader efforts to introduce sustainable and resilient infrastructure, particularly in response to climate vulnerabilities and urban growth.

The WOTA initiative is one of several international partnerships the government is exploring as part of its push to modernise essential services and improve quality of life for residents.

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