NSWMA has secured a World Bank-supported grant to improve tyre waste management in Antigua and Barbuda. The funding will allow the Authority to purchase a new tyre-shredding machine.

Importantly, the new machine can process all tyre types. These include steel-belted tyres and heavy-duty tyres. As a result, waste handling at the landfill is expected to improve significantly.

According to the National Solid Waste Management Authority, the equipment will ease long-standing pressure at the landfill. Moreover, it will strengthen the country’s overall waste-management system.

General Manager Indira James-Henry welcomed the development. She explained that the previous shredder was not fit for purpose. Specifically, it was too small and could not handle steel-reinforced tyres.

Therefore, the old machine limited the Authority’s ability to manage tyre waste effectively. In contrast, the new shredder will improve efficiency and safety.

Additionally, Ms James-Henry described used tyres as one of the country’s most serious waste challenges. She estimated that about five million tyres are currently stockpiled at the landfill.

Consequently, the growing volume has created serious concerns. The buildup places strain on landfill space and waste operations.

Furthermore, Ms James-Henry warned of environmental risks linked to the tyre stockpile. She also highlighted public health concerns. Fire hazards remain another major issue.

In particular, steel-reinforced tyres are difficult to process. Conventional equipment cannot easily handle them. As a result, they tend to accumulate quickly.

However, the new shredder is expected to address this problem directly. It will allow NSWMA to process tyres more consistently.

Moreover, improved shredding capacity will help reduce long-term storage at the landfill. This will lower the risks associated with large tyre stockpiles.

The Authority believes the grant marks an important step forward. It supports safer and more efficient waste management practices.

At the same time, the investment reflects ongoing efforts to modernize waste infrastructure. NSWMA continues to seek solutions to persistent waste challenges.

Overall, the new tyre shredder is expected to play a critical role. It will support environmental protection and public safety across Antigua and Barbuda.

Finally, the Authority said the grant strengthens its capacity to manage difficult waste streams. The project represents progress toward a more resilient waste-management system.

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